Chelsea remain in pole position to claim fourth spot in the Premier League and a return to the riches and prestige of the Champions League next season.

However, a slump in form from Frank Lampard's men has left the door open for Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal to secure a much-needed return to Europe's top competition, while Wolves and Sheffield United are also aiming to reach the promised land for the first time.

AFP Sport looks at all six sides' ambitions heading into the final 15 league games of the season.

Chelsea - 39 points

The Blues still have a five-point cushion, but should already be out of sight for the chasing pack.

Chelsea have won just four of their last 11 league games, a poor run that includes defeats to Bournemouth, West Ham, Southampton, Newcastle and Everton.

Arsenal at home on Tuesday is followed by Leicester, Tottenham and Manchester United, giving them the chance to finally pull clear, but it could also hand those behind them another lifeline.

<h6><img alt="oooo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3ecf015-cf44-4f52-915b-82219eaba814" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/123531-untitled-design-2.jpg" /> 
Chelsea's Mason Mount in action with Burnley's Jack Cork |&nbsp;Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Man Utd - 34 points

United's challenge for the top four will depend largely on what business they do before the end of the January transfer window.

Top scorer Marcus Rashford will be out for at least six weeks due to a stress fracture in his back, while long-term injuries to Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay have already left the Red Devils light in midfield.

United have what looks like the most appealing fixture run-in for the final seven games after the March international break.

However, they have to ensure they are still in the running by then with Wolves, Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham and Sheffield United all to come before Rashford returns.

Wolves - 34 points

Wolves' stunning fightback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at in-form Southampton on Saturday reignited their Champions League challenge, which had stalled in recent weeks.

Nuno Espirito Santo's men face Liverpool in their 40th game of the season on Thursday and a short squad could well run out of steam, particularly as they return to Europa League action next month.

But as they proved in beating Manchester City twice and running Liverpool close with a much-changed side last month, Wolves are a match for anyone on their day and go to Stamford Bridge on the final weekend of the season in what could be a winner-takes-all clash for fourth.

Sheffield United - 33 points

Most Blades fans would have settled for survival in their first top flight season for 13 years, but United manager Chris Wilder demands much more of his players.

Wilder has led the club up from League One to seventh in the Premier League and was scathing of his side's performance for most of Saturday's 1-1 draw at Arsenal.

Another daunting task awaits when City visit Bramall Lane on Tuesday, but even Pep Guardiola is a big fan of Wilder's ways.

"If you can improve watching other games and other teams and other managers, then this is the one," said the City boss.

After City, a run of games against Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Brighton, Aston Villa, Norwich and Newcastle could propel Wilder's men further up the table.

<h6><img alt="iiiii" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4a5afe47-9e94-4249-9f6a-08e0e333b590" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/119579-untitled-design-10.jpg" /> 
Champions League - Group H - Chelsea v Lille - Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - December 10, 2019 Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta celebrates scoring their second goal with Tammy Abraham and teammates | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

Tottenham - 31 points

Spurs are almost back to where they started under Jose Mourinho as early optimism and an upturn in results has fallen away in recent weeks.

The loss of Harry Kane for potentially the rest of the season is being felt in a lack of goals, with Mourinho's men taking just two points from their last four matches.

A return of 31 points from 23 games is 20 less than at the same stage last season.

Spurs have grown used to Champions League football over the past four seasons, but there has been little evidence from Mourinho's first two months in charge that they will put together the sustained run needed to overhaul his old club Chelsea.

Arsenal - 29 points

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted Tuesday's trip to Stamford Bridge is a must-win to maintain any hope of a top-four finish.

The Gunners' performances have improved since the Spaniard took charge last month, but they have won just one of five league games under Arteta.

1-1 draws with Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Sheffield United have been symbolic of what has held Arsenal back this season.

Other than Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, a lack of clinical finishing at one end has been compounded by consistent errors from an unsettled defence.

Chelsea remain in pole position to claim fourth spot in the Premier League and a return to the riches and prestige of the Champions League next season. However, a slump in form from Frank Lampard's men has left the door open for Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal to secure a much-needed return to Europe's top competition, while Wolves and Sheffield United are also aiming to reach the promised land for the first time.

Chelsea remain in pole position to claim fourth spot in the Premier League and a return to the riches and prestige of the Champions League next season. However, a slump in form from Frank Lampard's men has left the door open for Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal to secure a much-needed return to Europe's top competition, while Wolves and Sheffield United are also aiming to reach the promised land for the first time. AFP Sport looks at all six sides' ambitions heading into the final 15 league games of the season. Chelsea - 39 points The Blues still have a five-point cushion, but should already be out of sight for the chasing pack. Chelsea have won just four of their last 11 league games, a poor run that includes defeats to Bournemouth, West Ham, Southampton, Newcastle and Everton. Arsenal at home on Tuesday is followed by Leicester, Tottenham and Manchester United, giving them the chance to finally pull clear, but it could also hand those behind them another lifeline. Chelsea's Mason Mount in action with Burnley's Jack Cork | Reuters Man Utd - 34 points United's challenge for the top four will depend largely on what business they do before the end of the January transfer window. Top scorer Marcus Rashford will be out for at least six weeks due to a stress fracture in his back, while long-term injuries to Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay have already left the Red Devils light in midfield. United have what looks like the most appealing fixture run-in for the final seven games after the March international break. However, they have to ensure they are still in the running by then with Wolves, Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham and Sheffield United all to come before Rashford returns. Wolves - 34 points Wolves' stunning fightback from 2-0 down to win 3-2 at in-form Southampton on Saturday reignited their Champions League challenge, which had stalled in recent weeks. Nuno Espirito Santo's men face Liverpool in their 40th game of the season on Thursday and a short squad could well run out of steam, particularly as they return to Europa League action next month. But as they proved in beating Manchester City twice and running Liverpool close with a much-changed side last month, Wolves are a match for anyone on their day and go to Stamford Bridge on the final weekend of the season in what could be a winner-takes-all clash for fourth. Sheffield United - 33 points Most Blades fans would have settled for survival in their first top flight season for 13 years, but United manager Chris Wilder demands much more of his players. Wilder has led the club up from League One to seventh in the Premier League and was scathing of his side's performance for most of Saturday's 1-1 draw at Arsenal. Another daunting task awaits when City visit Bramall Lane on Tuesday, but even Pep Guardiola is a big fan of Wilder's ways. "If you can improve watching other games and other teams and other managers, then this is the one," said the City boss. After City, a run of games against Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Brighton, Aston Villa, Norwich and Newcastle could propel Wilder's men further up the table. Champions League - Group H - Chelsea v Lille - Stamford Bridge, London, Britain - December 10, 2019 Chelsea's Cesar Azpilicueta celebrates scoring their second goal with Tammy Abraham and teammates | Reuters Tottenham - 31 points Spurs are almost back to where they started under Jose Mourinho as early optimism and an upturn in results has fallen away in recent weeks. The loss of Harry Kane for potentially the rest of the season is being felt in a lack of goals, with Mourinho's men taking just two points from their last four matches. A return of 31 points from 23 games is 20 less than at the same stage last season. Spurs have grown used to Champions League football over the past four seasons, but there has been little evidence from Mourinho's first two months in charge that they will put together the sustained run needed to overhaul his old club Chelsea. Arsenal - 29 points Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted Tuesday's trip to Stamford Bridge is a must-win to maintain any hope of a top-four finish. The Gunners' performances have improved since the Spaniard took charge last month, but they have won just one of five league games under Arteta. 1-1 draws with Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Sheffield United have been symbolic of what has held Arsenal back this season. Other than Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, a lack of clinical finishing at one end has been compounded by consistent errors from an unsettled defence.

Premier League wobbles leave top four chase wide open

ATK (previously known as Atlético de Kolkata) and Mohun Bagan have finally merged into one entity. Indian Super League took to twitter to confirm&nbsp;the news.

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RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group acquires majority stake in <a href="https://twitter.com/Mohun_Bagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mohun_Bagan</a> FC 🤝 
 
Read more 👇<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://twitter.com/ATKFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATKFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/phHVs25i0G">https://t.co/phHVs25i0G</a>
— Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague/status/1217768910793011200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The six-years-old ISL team's merger with the 130-years-old I-League team is monumental as said by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. He tweeted to congratulate both the teams. He said: "A momentous partnership for Bengal football. I have no doubt ATK and Mohun Bagan will be torchbearers of moving Indian football forward together. 
@IndSuperLeague"- @SGanguly99

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A momentus partnership for Bengal football. I have no doubt ATK and Mohun Bagan will be torchbearers of moving Indian football forward together.<a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndSuperLeague</a> <a href="https://t.co/zVHJsPxKip">https://t.co/zVHJsPxKip</a>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1217864022898298880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ATK is owned by the Sanjiv Goenka's RPSG group, whereas Mohun Bagan football team is looked after by Mohun Bagan Football Club (India) Private Limited.

In the deal struck by the two teams, ATK will hold 80 per cent of the team's shares whereas Mohun Bagan will have just 20 per cent.&nbsp;

Swapan Sadhan Bose, Chairman, Mohun Bagan Football Club (India) Pvt&nbsp;Ltd&nbsp;said in an official statement that "In this context, I am very thankful to India's one of the most well-known industrialists and our Kolkata's very own Dr Sanjiv Goenka for his investment through RPSG. Their vision on Indian football aligns with our philosophy and our combined forces will surely take the club to bigger and greater heights. In this respect, it is a red-letter day in the history of this iconic institution".

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🗣️ <a href="https://twitter.com/praful_patel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@praful_patel</a>: "I congratulate 👏🏻 the fans of legendary <a href="https://twitter.com/Mohun_Bagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Mohun_Bagan</a> 🟢🔴 and <a href="https://twitter.com/IndSuperLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndSuperLeague</a> club <a href="https://twitter.com/ATKFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATKFC</a> 🔴⚪ on the merger 🤝."<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/uoWcPwgYTf">pic.twitter.com/uoWcPwgYTf</a>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1217838290260217857?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The new deal comes into existence from June 1. They will take part in the ISL (2020-21) and other important AIFF competitions as one team.&nbsp;

The logo and jersey of the team are yet to be decided, Mohun Bagan officials have said that the essence of both the clubs would be preserved.&nbsp;

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The official press release of Mohun Bagan regarding new investor is available in the official website<a href="https://t.co/NifBXQbugJ">https://t.co/NifBXQbugJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/4QU4evdW7m">pic.twitter.com/4QU4evdW7m</a>
— Mohun Bagan (@Mohun_Bagan) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mohun_Bagan/status/1217797628366184449?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ATK coach Antonio Lopez Habas is likely to be the head coach of the team. Few players of both the teams will be retained and they will look for new players to&nbsp;compete&nbsp;in the next ISL season.

Fans of both teams have expressed disappointment&nbsp;over the new merger.

But Swapan Sadhan Bose assured fans that the legacy will continue,&nbsp;"I can assure millions and millions of Bagan supporters spread across the globe, that the poetry will continue. Now that the prose is ready to lend a helping hand". 
&nbsp;

ATK (previously known as Atlético de Kolkata) and Mohun Bagan have finally merged into one entity. Indian Super League took to twitter to confirm the news. RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group acquires majority stake in @Mohun_Bagan FC 🤝 Read more 👇#HeroISL #LetsFootball @ATKFC https://t.

ATK (previously known as Atlético de Kolkata) and Mohun Bagan have finally merged into one entity. Indian Super League took to twitter to confirm the news. RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group acquires majority stake in @Mohun_Bagan FC 🤝 Read more 👇#HeroISL #LetsFootball @ATKFC https://t.co/phHVs25i0G — Indian Super League (@IndSuperLeague) January 16, 2020 × The six-years-old ISL team's merger with the 130-years-old I-League team is monumental as said by BCCI president Sourav Ganguly. He tweeted to congratulate both the teams. He said: "A momentous partnership for Bengal football. I have no doubt ATK and Mohun Bagan will be torchbearers of moving Indian football forward together. @IndSuperLeague"- @SGanguly99 A momentus partnership for Bengal football. I have no doubt ATK and Mohun Bagan will be torchbearers of moving Indian football forward together.@IndSuperLeague https://t.co/zVHJsPxKip — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) January 16, 2020 × ATK is owned by the Sanjiv Goenka's RPSG group, whereas Mohun Bagan football team is looked after by Mohun Bagan Football Club (India) Private Limited. In the deal struck by the two teams, ATK will hold 80 per cent of the team's shares whereas Mohun Bagan will have just 20 per cent. Swapan Sadhan Bose, Chairman, Mohun Bagan Football Club (India) Pvt Ltd said in an official statement that "In this context, I am very thankful to India's one of the most well-known industrialists and our Kolkata's very own Dr Sanjiv Goenka for his investment through RPSG. Their vision on Indian football aligns with our philosophy and our combined forces will surely take the club to bigger and greater heights. In this respect, it is a red-letter day in the history of this iconic institution". 🗣️ @praful_patel: "I congratulate 👏🏻 the fans of legendary @Mohun_Bagan 🟢🔴 and @IndSuperLeague club @ATKFC 🔴⚪ on the merger 🤝."#IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/uoWcPwgYTf — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) January 16, 2020 × The new deal comes into existence from June 1. They will take part in the ISL (2020-21) and other important AIFF competitions as one team. The logo and jersey of the team are yet to be decided, Mohun Bagan officials have said that the essence of both the clubs would be preserved. The official press release of Mohun Bagan regarding new investor is available in the official websitehttps://t.co/NifBXQbugJ pic.twitter.com/4QU4evdW7m — Mohun Bagan (@Mohun_Bagan) January 16, 2020 × ATK coach Antonio Lopez Habas is likely to be the head coach of the team. Few players of both the teams will be retained and they will look for new players to compete in the next ISL season. Fans of both teams have expressed disappointment over the new merger. But Swapan Sadhan Bose assured fans that the legacy will continue, "I can assure millions and millions of Bagan supporters spread across the globe, that the poetry will continue. Now that the prose is ready to lend a helping hand".

'ATK and Mohun Bagan will be torchbearers in Indian football': Sourav Ganguly

Ernesto Valverde has been sacked by FC Barcelona after underperforming&nbsp;in the matches recently. Quique Setien fills in the position for the table-toppers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/xavi-says-would-be-dream-to-coach-barca-as-pressure-mounts-on-valverde-273721">Xavi says would be 'dream' to coach Barca as pressure mounts on Valverde</a>

This decision came in after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../spanish-super-cup-atletico-madrid-beat-fc- barcelona-exciting-game-play-ends-with-nail-biting-finish-273311">Barcelona</a> crashed out of Spanish Super Cup after a disappointing match against Atletico Madrid. Despite being on the top of the La Liga table, and being safely through to the Champions League Round of 16, where are set to face Napoli. Barca have not yet managed to secure a win in 2020.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-beat-atletico-on-penalties-to-win-11th-spanish-super-cup-273840">Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup</a>

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Agreement between FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde to end his contract as manager of the first team. Thank you for everything, Ernesto. Best of luck in the future. <a href="https://t.co/zrIgB1sW2e">pic.twitter.com/zrIgB1sW2e</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1216846220578230273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Speculations of Valverde being sacked were making rounds for quite a long time. Barcelona played a 2-2 draw against LaLiga's bottom club Espanyol which helped their arch-rivals Real Madrid close in to topple the table toppers.&nbsp;

At the moment Barcelona and Real Madrid are the top 2 on the points table. They share the same points (40 points), but the Catalans (Barcelona) are ahead because of the goal difference.

Barcelona have not managed to win the Champions League for four years. The last time they won was against Juventus 3-1 in the year 2015.&nbsp;

In 2017 Valverde did pull of a double when Barcelona won the league (La Liga) and the Spanish Super Cup.&nbsp;

Former Real Betis boss Setien, is a well-known fan of the Johan Cruyff-inspired Barcá brand of football. On Tuesday, Bartomeu and Abidal are to call a press conference to unveil Setien as the new Barcelona head coach.

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Quique Setién will be the new manager of FC Barcelona. Welcome! 
 
➕ INFO <a href="https://t.co/EOP9MSFFJ1">https://t.co/EOP9MSFFJ1</a> <a href="https://t.co/IkhzFGyxHf">pic.twitter.com/IkhzFGyxHf</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1216850196090454016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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FC Barcelona legend, Xavi Hernandez was rumoured to be the official successor, in-fact Barcelona were in talks with him for the role. But the Spaniard declined the offer.&nbsp;

He expressed his desire to coach his former team but has decided to put the plans on hold for at least a season.

The 61-year-old is set to face his first challenge as Barcelona will be playing against Granada on January 20. 
&nbsp;

Ernesto Valverde has been sacked by FC Barcelona after underperforming in the matches recently. Quique Setien fills in the position for the table-toppers. Also read: Xavi says would be 'dream' to coach Barca as pressure mounts on Valverde This decision came in after Barcelona crashed out of Spanish Super Cup after a disappointing match against Atletico Madrid.

Ernesto Valverde has been sacked by FC Barcelona after underperforming in the matches recently. Quique Setien fills in the position for the table-toppers. Also read: Xavi says would be 'dream' to coach Barca as pressure mounts on Valverde This decision came in after Barcelona crashed out of Spanish Super Cup after a disappointing match against Atletico Madrid. Despite being on the top of the La Liga table, and being safely through to the Champions League Round of 16, where are set to face Napoli. Barca have not yet managed to secure a win in 2020. Also read: Real Madrid defeat Atletico Madrid on penalties to lift 11th Spanish Super Cup Agreement between FC Barcelona and Ernesto Valverde to end his contract as manager of the first team. Thank you for everything, Ernesto. Best of luck in the future. pic.twitter.com/zrIgB1sW2e — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 13, 2020 × Speculations of Valverde being sacked were making rounds for quite a long time. Barcelona played a 2-2 draw against LaLiga's bottom club Espanyol which helped their arch-rivals Real Madrid close in to topple the table toppers. At the moment Barcelona and Real Madrid are the top 2 on the points table. They share the same points (40 points), but the Catalans (Barcelona) are ahead because of the goal difference. Barcelona have not managed to win the Champions League for four years. The last time they won was against Juventus 3-1 in the year 2015. In 2017 Valverde did pull of a double when Barcelona won the league (La Liga) and the Spanish Super Cup. Former Real Betis boss Setien, is a well-known fan of the Johan Cruyff-inspired Barcá brand of football. On Tuesday, Bartomeu and Abidal are to call a press conference to unveil Setien as the new Barcelona head coach. Quique Setién will be the new manager of FC Barcelona. Welcome! ➕ INFO https://t.co/EOP9MSFFJ1 pic.twitter.com/IkhzFGyxHf — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 13, 2020 × FC Barcelona legend, Xavi Hernandez was rumoured to be the official successor, in-fact Barcelona were in talks with him for the role. But the Spaniard declined the offer. He expressed his desire to coach his former team but has decided to put the plans on hold for at least a season. The 61-year-old is set to face his first challenge as Barcelona will be playing against Granada on January 20.

Barcelona sack manager Valverde, Setien to step in for the role

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../premier-league-tottenham-suffer-kane-injury- blow-271656">Southampton</a> stunned Leicester City 2-1 at the King Power Stadium on Saturday thanks to a late goal from Danny Ings and a lucky strike from midfielder Stuart Armstrong, as the Saints put their 9-0 thrashing in the return fixture in October behind them.

The win came on the back of a vastly improved display from Southampton and keeps Ralph Hasenhuettl's side in 12th place in the table on 28 points.

The in-form Ings, who had missed a slew of chances earlier in the match, struck the winner - his 14th league goal of the campaign - in the 81st minute after collecting a through pass from substitute Che Adams.

The hosts thought they had levelled the tie at 2-2 in the final seconds of regulation time when Jonny Evans nodded in a free-kick from James Maddison. But the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) judged the defender to be in an offside position.

"We did everything we could to turn it around, and we've done that and better. So proud of the team," Ings, who struck the crossbar twice in the first half, told the BBC.

"We take each game as it comes. We have smiles on our faces, we are getting back to enjoying football."

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— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SouthamptonFC/status/1216133183567085569?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Leicester had earlier gone ahead in the 14th minute through midfielder Dennis Praet's first goal for the club, as he tapped the ball in after Jamie Vardy ran on to a lobbed pass and fired a cross into the penalty area.

Southampton levelled five minutes later as Armstrong's curling left-footed shot went in after a deflection off Maddison giving Kasper Schmeichel no chance in goal.

Southampton were then given a second-half penalty when Caglar Soyuncu brought down Shane Long in the box, but VAR deemed that he was marginally offside in the build-up and also rescinded the yellow card issued to the Leicester defender.

Hasenhuettl hailed his team's "best away performance" of the season so far.

"We played fantastically quick behind the lines. We had to be nervous until the end but we tried to press them high and keep them away from our goal," the Austrian said.

"It was a very important game... We changed completely our mind and worked so hard to find a successful way, and at the moment to see this team play is enjoyable all the time."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../premier-league-tottenhams-kane-ruled-out-for- three-months-with-hamstring-injury-273331">Leicester</a>, who had a number of chances in the match, remain second on 45 points but defending champions Manchester City could leapfrog them if they beat Aston Villa on Sunday.

"A disappointing day for us. We thought we would come away with a point which, possibly we would not have deserved," Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers said.

"We were just not quite at our best today. Normally we are good defensively. We didn't press well enough and we made too many mistakes with the ball." 
&nbsp;

Southampton stunned Leicester City 2-1 at the King Power Stadium on Saturday thanks to a late goal from Danny Ings and a lucky strike from midfielder Stuart Armstrong, as the Saints put their 9-0 thrashing in the return fixture in October behind them.

Southampton stunned Leicester City 2-1 at the King Power Stadium on Saturday thanks to a late goal from Danny Ings and a lucky strike from midfielder Stuart Armstrong, as the Saints put their 9-0 thrashing in the return fixture in October behind them. The win came on the back of a vastly improved display from Southampton and keeps Ralph Hasenhuettl's side in 12th place in the table on 28 points. The in-form Ings, who had missed a slew of chances earlier in the match, struck the winner - his 14th league goal of the campaign - in the 81st minute after collecting a through pass from substitute Che Adams. The hosts thought they had levelled the tie at 2-2 in the final seconds of regulation time when Jonny Evans nodded in a free-kick from James Maddison. But the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) judged the defender to be in an offside position. "We did everything we could to turn it around, and we've done that and better. So proud of the team," Ings, who struck the crossbar twice in the first half, told the BBC. "We take each game as it comes. We have smiles on our faces, we are getting back to enjoying football." #WeMarchOn pic.twitter.com/eWP5yXxk1s — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) January 11, 2020 × Leicester had earlier gone ahead in the 14th minute through midfielder Dennis Praet's first goal for the club, as he tapped the ball in after Jamie Vardy ran on to a lobbed pass and fired a cross into the penalty area. Southampton levelled five minutes later as Armstrong's curling left-footed shot went in after a deflection off Maddison giving Kasper Schmeichel no chance in goal. Southampton were then given a second-half penalty when Caglar Soyuncu brought down Shane Long in the box, but VAR deemed that he was marginally offside in the build-up and also rescinded the yellow card issued to the Leicester defender. Hasenhuettl hailed his team's "best away performance" of the season so far. "We played fantastically quick behind the lines. We had to be nervous until the end but we tried to press them high and keep them away from our goal," the Austrian said. "It was a very important game... We changed completely our mind and worked so hard to find a successful way, and at the moment to see this team play is enjoyable all the time." Leicester, who had a number of chances in the match, remain second on 45 points but defending champions Manchester City could leapfrog them if they beat Aston Villa on Sunday. "A disappointing day for us. We thought we would come away with a point which, possibly we would not have deserved," Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers said. "We were just not quite at our best today. Normally we are good defensively. We didn't press well enough and we made too many mistakes with the ball."

English Premier League: Late Ings winner helps Southampton stun Leicester

Mauro Icardi continued his devastating scoring form with a hat-trick to inspire Paris St Germain to a 6-1 thrashing of 10-man <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/st-etienne-hit-with-stadium-ban-over-fireworks-during-psg-match-268949">St Etienne</a> in the French League Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Argentine Icardi, on loan from Inter Milan, scored either side of the interval with Neymar, a Jessy Moulin own goal and a Kylian Mbappe effort adding to the woes of Les Verts, who were reduced to 10 men when Wesley Fofana was sent off after half an hour.

Icardi has scored 17 goals in 19 games for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-cruise-into-league-cup-quarters-without-rested-neymar-269109">PSG</a>.

Yohan Cabaye scored St Etienne's only goal in the second half at the Parc des Princes but his team had already been subdued in a one-sided encounter.

PSG&nbsp;went ahead after two minutes when Icardi found the back of the net with an angled shot.

Things went from bad to worse for the visitors as Fofana was sent off for a second bookable offence for tripping Marco Verratti in the 31st minute.

Eight minutes later, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-and-neymar-dazzle-as-psg-thrash-galatasaray-267850">Neymar</a> doubled the lead with a chipped finish after being set up by Angel Di Maria and Moulin scored an own goal after a Loic Perrin deflection hit the post and bounced in off the keeper on the stroke of halftime.

Icardi tapped in from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mbappe-adds-olympic-appearance-to-packed-2020-wish-list-269880">Mbappe</a>'s cross four minutes into the second half and added his third in the 57th in similar fashion.

Icardi returned the favour 10 minutes later with Mbappe latching onto his cross to make it 6-0.

Cabaye reduced the arrears in the 71st, poking the ball home after keeper Sergio Rico had parried away the midfielder's penalty.

Elsewhere, Olympique Lyonnais advanced with a 3-1 victory against Brest while Lille beat Amiens 2-0.

Stade de Reims beat holders Racing Strasbourg on penalties after a goalless draw on Tuesday.

Mauro Icardi continued his devastating scoring form with a hat-trick to inspire Paris St Germain to a 6-1 thrashing of 10-man St Etienne in the French League Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Mauro Icardi continued his devastating scoring form with a hat-trick to inspire Paris St Germain to a 6-1 thrashing of 10-man St Etienne in the French League Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday. Argentine Icardi, on loan from Inter Milan, scored either side of the interval with Neymar, a Jessy Moulin own goal and a Kylian Mbappe effort adding to the woes of Les Verts, who were reduced to 10 men when Wesley Fofana was sent off after half an hour. Icardi has scored 17 goals in 19 games for PSG. Yohan Cabaye scored St Etienne's only goal in the second half at the Parc des Princes but his team had already been subdued in a one-sided encounter. PSG went ahead after two minutes when Icardi found the back of the net with an angled shot. Things went from bad to worse for the visitors as Fofana was sent off for a second bookable offence for tripping Marco Verratti in the 31st minute. Eight minutes later, Neymar doubled the lead with a chipped finish after being set up by Angel Di Maria and Moulin scored an own goal after a Loic Perrin deflection hit the post and bounced in off the keeper on the stroke of halftime. Icardi tapped in from Mbappe's cross four minutes into the second half and added his third in the 57th in similar fashion. Icardi returned the favour 10 minutes later with Mbappe latching onto his cross to make it 6-0. Cabaye reduced the arrears in the 71st, poking the ball home after keeper Sergio Rico had parried away the midfielder's penalty. Elsewhere, Olympique Lyonnais advanced with a 3-1 victory against Brest while Lille beat Amiens 2-0. Stade de Reims beat holders Racing Strasbourg on penalties after a goalless draw on Tuesday.

Football: Icardi on fire as PSG demolish St Etienne in League Cup

Barcelona Manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../vidals-lawsuit-against-barca-wont-affect-status- in-team-says-valverde-272090">Ernesto Valverde</a> raised his concerns over the newly revised form of Spanish Super Cup.&nbsp;

"It's been changed and let's see, it will be judged once it has happened. It's interesting, with four good teams, but from a sporting point of view, I'm not sure," said Ernesto Valverde during the news conference held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Previously the Super Cup was held between the La Liga winners and the Copa del Ray winners, but last year the Spanish football federation&nbsp;agreed to double the number of teams (top two teams of La Liga and Copa del Ray) and take the competition outside Spain permanently as well as moving the playing months from August to January.

In 2018, the Super Cup was held as a one-off game in Tangier, Morocco. Barcelona had one this fixture and won the Super Cup

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-certainly-know-the-city-better-now-barcelona-team-bus-lost-in-saudi-arabia-273092">'We certainly know the city better now': Barcelona team bus lost in Saudi Arabia</a>

Ernesto Valverde went on to say "I know there has been a lot said about this competition but the bottom line is football has become a business and as a business, it looks for income."&nbsp;

“The reason why we are here and why we were in Morocco is because the authorities are looking for more sources of income,” added Valverde.&nbsp;

This move faced heavy criticism from the traditional fan bases for scheduling the matches out of Spain. Relocating the matches in Saudi also is criticised as Saudi Arabia has been poor in terms of Human Rights.&nbsp;

A controversial three-year contract worth 120 million euros was struck between the Spanish Football Federation&nbsp;and Saudi Arabia, the deal was only signed after Saudi Arabia agreed that women would be able to attend the games.

The clubs will also benefit financially. For participating alone, Real Madrid and Barcelona will earn around 6 million euros while Atletico and Valencia will make around 3 million euros.

Barcelona faces Atletico in the second semi-final&nbsp;today, with the winner facing Real Madrid in the final on Sunday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../supercopa-quick-thinking-kroos-helps-real-to- final-273097">Zinedine Zidane's side beat Valencia 3-1</a>.

Barcelona Manager Ernesto Valverde raised his concerns over the newly revised form of Spanish Super Cup. "It's been changed and let's see, it will be judged once it has happened.

Barcelona Manager Ernesto Valverde raised his concerns over the newly revised form of Spanish Super Cup. "It's been changed and let's see, it will be judged once it has happened. It's interesting, with four good teams, but from a sporting point of view, I'm not sure," said Ernesto Valverde during the news conference held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Previously the Super Cup was held between the La Liga winners and the Copa del Ray winners, but last year the Spanish football federation agreed to double the number of teams (top two teams of La Liga and Copa del Ray) and take the competition outside Spain permanently as well as moving the playing months from August to January. In 2018, the Super Cup was held as a one-off game in Tangier, Morocco. Barcelona had one this fixture and won the Super Cup Also read: 'We certainly know the city better now': Barcelona team bus lost in Saudi Arabia Ernesto Valverde went on to say "I know there has been a lot said about this competition but the bottom line is football has become a business and as a business, it looks for income." “The reason why we are here and why we were in Morocco is because the authorities are looking for more sources of income,” added Valverde. This move faced heavy criticism from the traditional fan bases for scheduling the matches out of Spain. Relocating the matches in Saudi also is criticised as Saudi Arabia has been poor in terms of Human Rights. A controversial three-year contract worth 120 million euros was struck between the Spanish Football Federation and Saudi Arabia, the deal was only signed after Saudi Arabia agreed that women would be able to attend the games. The clubs will also benefit financially. For participating alone, Real Madrid and Barcelona will earn around 6 million euros while Atletico and Valencia will make around 3 million euros. Barcelona faces Atletico in the second semi-final today, with the winner facing Real Madrid in the final on Sunday after Zinedine Zidane's side beat Valencia 3-1.

Spanish Super Cup's format, relocation to Saudi Arabia due to football's desire for money says Valverde

Holders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Manchester City</a> took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-solskjaer-needs-time-to-make-lasting-impact-at-manchester-united-guardiola-272687">Manchester United</a> in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

City outclassed their neighbours in the first half, going in 3-0 at the break with goals from Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and an Andreas Pereira own goal before United regrouped and avoided what could have been a more emphatic defeat.

"We could have gone in four or five up at halftime, we had the chances. They pressed us higher in the second half, we got tired but overall we are happy," said Bernardo Silva.

The hosts suffered a blow before kick-off with their 80 million pounds central defender Harry Maguire failing a fitness test and Phil Jones was handed a rare start.

City manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-var-is-a-big-mess-says-guardiola-after-more-controversies-270921">Pep Guardiola</a> opted to play without a recognised striker, giving midfielders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kevin-de-bruyne-prefers-old-school-but-ok-with-var-243907">Kevin De Bruyne</a> and Bernardo Silva licence to push forward centrally.

With Raheem Sterling and Mahrez on the wings, the approach worked superbly against a flimsy-looking defence.

It was a brilliant strike from Bernardo Silva that put City ahead in the 17th minute, the winger cutting in from the right before unleashing a superb shot into the far, top corner.

The busy Portugal international then created City's second in the 33rd, collecting a poor headed clearance from Victor Lindelof and dancing past a challenge before threading the ball to Mahrez who rounded goalkeeper David de Gea and slotted home.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jesus-double-helps-man-city-inflict-first-defeat-on-ancelotti-271641">City</a> then punished United with a counter-attack which ended with De Bruyne leaving Jones on the ground and blasting goalwards before De Gea's parry ricocheted off United midfielder Pereira into his own net after 38 minutes.

&nbsp;

More solid

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-dominate-manchester-united-in-first-win-for-arteta-271539">United</a> looked more solid after the introduction of midfielder Nemanja Matic at the break and got a foothold in the tie through a 70th-minute goal from Marcus Rashford.

The England striker was picked out by a perfectly-weighted pass from Mason Greenwood and coolly slipped the ball past keeper Claudio Bravo.

The last 15 teams to win away from home in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final have all progressed to the final but Guardiola said the tie was far from over.

"Of course Manchester United can come back. Last year here they lost to PSG and they qualified," he said, referring to United's 2-0 home defeat by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-cruise-into-league-cup-quarters-without-rested-neymar-269109">Paris St-Germain</a> in the Champions League last 16 which they overturned with a 3-1 win in Paris.

"They have the shirt which means history and pride," added the Spaniard, whose City team lost 2-1 to their rivals at the Etihad in December's Premier League clash.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had not performed well in the crucial period after City's opening goal.

"From their first goal and especially the second, we struggled to get to grips with them. A good reaction second half, but first half until they scored it is was back and forth. We didn't cope with the setback well enough," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-sack-pellegrini-after-leicester-defeat-270816">Leicester City</a> face Aston Villa in the first leg of the other semi-final on Wednesday.

Holders Manchester City took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday.

Holders Manchester City took a big step towards another League Cup showpiece with a 3-1 win over Manchester United in their semi-final, first leg at Old Trafford on Tuesday. City outclassed their neighbours in the first half, going in 3-0 at the break with goals from Bernardo Silva, Riyad Mahrez and an Andreas Pereira own goal before United regrouped and avoided what could have been a more emphatic defeat. "We could have gone in four or five up at halftime, we had the chances. They pressed us higher in the second half, we got tired but overall we are happy," said Bernardo Silva. The hosts suffered a blow before kick-off with their 80 million pounds central defender Harry Maguire failing a fitness test and Phil Jones was handed a rare start. City manager Pep Guardiola opted to play without a recognised striker, giving midfielders Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva licence to push forward centrally. With Raheem Sterling and Mahrez on the wings, the approach worked superbly against a flimsy-looking defence. It was a brilliant strike from Bernardo Silva that put City ahead in the 17th minute, the winger cutting in from the right before unleashing a superb shot into the far, top corner. The busy Portugal international then created City's second in the 33rd, collecting a poor headed clearance from Victor Lindelof and dancing past a challenge before threading the ball to Mahrez who rounded goalkeeper David de Gea and slotted home. City then punished United with a counter-attack which ended with De Bruyne leaving Jones on the ground and blasting goalwards before De Gea's parry ricocheted off United midfielder Pereira into his own net after 38 minutes. More solid United looked more solid after the introduction of midfielder Nemanja Matic at the break and got a foothold in the tie through a 70th-minute goal from Marcus Rashford. The England striker was picked out by a perfectly-weighted pass from Mason Greenwood and coolly slipped the ball past keeper Claudio Bravo. The last 15 teams to win away from home in the first leg of the League Cup semi-final have all progressed to the final but Guardiola said the tie was far from over. "Of course Manchester United can come back. Last year here they lost to PSG and they qualified," he said, referring to United's 2-0 home defeat by Paris St-Germain in the Champions League last 16 which they overturned with a 3-1 win in Paris. "They have the shirt which means history and pride," added the Spaniard, whose City team lost 2-1 to their rivals at the Etihad in December's Premier League clash. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said his side had not performed well in the crucial period after City's opening goal. "From their first goal and especially the second, we struggled to get to grips with them. A good reaction second half, but first half until they scored it is was back and forth. We didn't cope with the setback well enough," he said. Leicester City face Aston Villa in the first leg of the other semi-final on Wednesday.

League Cup: Final in sight for Manchester City after 3-1 win against United

The statue of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-god-zlatan-more-in-demand-now-than-10-years-ago-271949">Zlatan&nbsp;Ibrahimovic</a>&nbsp;erected in his home city has been attacked again and almost completely removed from its plinth outside Malmo Stadium after vandals sawed it off at the ankles.

AC Milan striker&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;was present for the unveiling of the statue in October last year, but he subsequently angered fans in Malmo by acquiring a stake in Stockholm rivals Hammarby and saying that he was going to turn them into Scandinavia's biggest soccer club.

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;made his name at Malmo FF before going on to a trophy-laden career in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, England, France and the United States.

The nose of the statue was cut off in a pre-Christmas attack but the vandalism this weekend was the most severe yet.

Only the two feet were left on the plinth and the rest of the body was left-leaning over a security fence erected to protect it, connected only by a supporting pole in the right leg.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The words "take away" in Swedish were sprayed on the ground close to the statue.&nbsp;

The 38-year old is expected to make his first appearance since returning to Serie A on Monday when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-returns-to-italy-as-final-chapter-looms-270707">AC Milan</a> take on Sampdoria at the San Siro stadium.

The statue of Zlatan Ibrahimovic erected in his home city has been attacked again and almost completely removed from its plinth outside Malmo Stadium after vandals sawed it off at the ankles.

The statue of Zlatan Ibrahimovic erected in his home city has been attacked again and almost completely removed from its plinth outside Malmo Stadium after vandals sawed it off at the ankles. AC Milan striker Ibrahimovic was present for the unveiling of the statue in October last year, but he subsequently angered fans in Malmo by acquiring a stake in Stockholm rivals Hammarby and saying that he was going to turn them into Scandinavia's biggest soccer club. Ibrahimovic made his name at Malmo FF before going on to a trophy-laden career in the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, England, France and the United States. The nose of the statue was cut off in a pre-Christmas attack but the vandalism this weekend was the most severe yet. Only the two feet were left on the plinth and the rest of the body was left-leaning over a security fence erected to protect it, connected only by a supporting pole in the right leg. The words "take away" in Swedish were sprayed on the ground close to the statue. The 38-year old is expected to make his first appearance since returning to Serie A on Monday when AC Milan take on Sampdoria at the San Siro stadium.

AC Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic statue vandalised in Sweden

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-united-sevilla-and-celtic-into-europa-league-last-32-260697">Sevilla</a>&nbsp;squandered the&nbsp;chance&nbsp;to go level on points with second-placed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-real-madrid-draw-as-clasico-marred-by-violence-269061">Real&nbsp;Madrid</a> in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">La Liga</a> as they could only&nbsp;draw&nbsp;1-1 at home to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">Athletic&nbsp;Bilbao</a>&nbsp;on Friday in their first game back after a two-week winter break.

The Basque side went ahead in the 15th minute after a bright start when Ander Capa pounced on a loose ball inside the area and slid it under&nbsp;Sevilla&nbsp;keeper Tomas Vaclik into the bottom corner.

Sevilla&nbsp;dominated the remainder of the first half and twice came close to levelling, with Ever Banega hitting the bar straight from a corner and Munir El Haddadi having a shot scrambled off the line by Yeray Alvarez.

Dutch striker Luuk de Jong then&nbsp;missed a gilt-edged&nbsp;chance&nbsp;to score but his side drew level a minute later with an own goal from Athletic defender Unai Nunez, who attempted to block a cross from Lucas Ocampos and diverted it into his own net.

Sevilla&nbsp;remains third in the standings on 35 points after 19 games, two behind&nbsp;Real&nbsp;Madrid who visits Getafe on Saturday and four behind leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-liga-real-madrid-frustrated-by-athletic-and-fall-behind-barca-269641">Barcelona</a> who play at Espanyol.

Athletic are seventh on 29 points.

Sevilla squandered the chance to go level on points with second-placed Real Madrid in La Liga as they could only draw 1-1 at home to Athletic Bilbao on Friday in their first game back after a two-week winter break.

Sevilla squandered the chance to go level on points with second-placed Real Madrid in La Liga as they could only draw 1-1 at home to Athletic Bilbao on Friday in their first game back after a two-week winter break. The Basque side went ahead in the 15th minute after a bright start when Ander Capa pounced on a loose ball inside the area and slid it under Sevilla keeper Tomas Vaclik into the bottom corner. Sevilla dominated the remainder of the first half and twice came close to levelling, with Ever Banega hitting the bar straight from a corner and Munir El Haddadi having a shot scrambled off the line by Yeray Alvarez. Dutch striker Luuk de Jong then missed a gilt-edged chance to score but his side drew level a minute later with an own goal from Athletic defender Unai Nunez, who attempted to block a cross from Lucas Ocampos and diverted it into his own net. Sevilla remains third in the standings on 35 points after 19 games, two behind Real Madrid who visits Getafe on Saturday and four behind leaders Barcelona who play at Espanyol. Athletic are seventh on 29 points.

La Liga: Sevilla miss chance to catch Real with draw against Bilbao

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is more in demand at the age of 38 than he was 10 years ago and is adapting his game as he gets older, the Swedish forward said as he was officially presented by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ac-milan-offer-ibrahimovic-six-month-deal-reports-263650">AC Milan</a> on Friday.

Ibrahimovic has rejoined the club he left seven years ago for a six-month stint, with an option to extend his stay, but there are questions over how much impact he can have on the fallen giants who are languishing in 11th position in the Serie A.

In their last match, Milan produced a pitiful display as they were thumped 5-0 at Atalanta, their joint-heaviest Serie A defeat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/see-you-soon-in-italy-ibrahimovic-fuels-talk-of-serie-a-return-266184">Ibrahimovic</a> helped AC Milan win their last major trophy, the Serie A title in 2010-11, before leaving to join Paris St Germain the following year in a move that he said on Friday was against his will.

He has been a free agent since leaving <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zlatan-ibrahimovic-nets-hat-trick-in-upset-win-over-lafc-237253">Los Angeles Galaxy</a> in November.

"At 38, I have received more offers than at 28," he told reporters. "The last time I left <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-set-for-ac-milan-return-reports-270530">AC Milan</a>, it was without my approval but the situation was what it was... the important thing is that I am here now."

He said he still had passion for football but had learned to adapt with age.

"Each year is different, physically you change with every year that goes by," he added. "But experience teaches you to do things differently, if you're an intelligent player you know what you can and cannot do... instead of running, I can shoot from long distance."

He promised he would not go easy on his younger teammates.

"I'm meaner than before," he said. "They know what I am like, how I train and play each match.

"You have to work hard. You have to know how to suffer, otherwise you don't reach your maximum potential. Not everyone likes to suffer but I do... and I expect a lot from my team mates."

Milan's next match is at home to Sampdoria in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ibrahimovic-returns-to-italy-as-final-chapter-looms-270707">Serie A </a>on Monday although there was no mention of whether Ibrahimovic, who has not played since October, would make his debut that quickly.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is more in demand at the age of 38 than he was 10 years ago and is adapting his game as he gets older, the Swedish forward said as he was officially presented by AC Milan on Friday.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is more in demand at the age of 38 than he was 10 years ago and is adapting his game as he gets older, the Swedish forward said as he was officially presented by AC Milan on Friday. Ibrahimovic has rejoined the club he left seven years ago for a six-month stint, with an option to extend his stay, but there are questions over how much impact he can have on the fallen giants who are languishing in 11th position in the Serie A. In their last match, Milan produced a pitiful display as they were thumped 5-0 at Atalanta, their joint-heaviest Serie A defeat. Ibrahimovic helped AC Milan win their last major trophy, the Serie A title in 2010-11, before leaving to join Paris St Germain the following year in a move that he said on Friday was against his will. He has been a free agent since leaving Los Angeles Galaxy in November. "At 38, I have received more offers than at 28," he told reporters. "The last time I left AC Milan, it was without my approval but the situation was what it was... the important thing is that I am here now." He said he still had passion for football but had learned to adapt with age. "Each year is different, physically you change with every year that goes by," he added. "But experience teaches you to do things differently, if you're an intelligent player you know what you can and cannot do... instead of running, I can shoot from long distance." He promised he would not go easy on his younger teammates. "I'm meaner than before," he said. "They know what I am like, how I train and play each match. "You have to work hard. You have to know how to suffer, otherwise you don't reach your maximum potential. Not everyone likes to suffer but I do... and I expect a lot from my team mates." Milan's next match is at home to Sampdoria in Serie A on Monday although there was no mention of whether Ibrahimovic, who has not played since October, would make his debut that quickly.

Football god Zlatan more in demand now than 10 years ago

Football in 2019: Liverpool rules | US women's team wins World Cup | Lionel Messi takes Ballon d'Or

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-martial-scores-twice-as-manchester-united-crush-newcastle-270486">Manchester United</a> climbed to fifth place in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-improving-saints-stun-chelsea-with-2-0-win-at-stamford-bridge-270505">Premier League</a> after goals from Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford gave them a 2-0 win at Burnley on Saturday which leaves them a point outside the Champions League spots.

For all the question marks over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-says-smiles-back-on-manchester-united-faces-ahead-of-derby-266672">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> and his side, United head into the New Year battling for a top-four place thanks in part to rivals' inconsistency but also due to the emergence of Martial and Rashford as real attacking threats.

The win also ended a run of 14 matches without a clean sheet for United and was their first away since February, although Burnley's shot-shy attack certainly made that task easier.

United's midfield was weakened by the absence of midfielder Paul Pogba, still in recovery phase and rested after two recent substitute appearances, and Scott McTominay who Solskjaer says faces up to four weeks out with a knee injury.

The Norwegian coach was forced to hand a rare start to Nemanja Matic and, despite the absentees, United had little trouble gaining the upper hand against a cautious Burnley.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rashford-can-be-as-good-as-cristiano-ronaldo-says-solskjaer-267421">Rashford</a> forced goalkeeper Nick Pope into action with a long-range free-kick and then hit the post at the end of a swift break while Martial had a shot cleared off the line by Phil Bardsley in the 33rd minute.

The French forward got the breakthrough a minute before halftime with a simple finish after Andreas Pereira robbed defender Charlie Taylor and slipped the ball across to Martial.

Sean Dyche's Burnley side struggled to create any openings but were more positive after the break and David de Gea had to pull off a fine save in the 68th minute to keep out a low drive from Bardsley.

But after a spell of late pressure from the hosts, United wrapped up the win in stoppage time with Dan James breaking and finding Rashford, who rounded Pope and slotted home.

United end the year with back-to-back wins, following a 4-1 victory over Newcastle United on Boxing Day and the concerns raised by Solskjaer after the recent loss at Watford seem to have had the desired impact.

"We want to get (in the top four) and we’re not far away. We did (challenge) towards the end of last season as well, we were close to the top four, but then we dropped off," he said.

“Now they’ve responded to the defeat against Watford, I put a challenge to them and they’ve put my words to shame so I’m very happy with them”.

Rashford is developing an impressive understanding with Martial and took time to praise the Frenchman, who scored twice in the win over Newcastle.

"He was brilliant again today. For a forward, there's nothing better than scoring goals. Hopefully, it keeps his confidence high and this can continue until the end of the season," he said.

Manchester United climbed to fifth place in the Premier League after goals from Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford gave them a 2-0 win at Burnley on Saturday which leaves them a point outside the Champions League spots.

Manchester United climbed to fifth place in the Premier League after goals from Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford gave them a 2-0 win at Burnley on Saturday which leaves them a point outside the Champions League spots. For all the question marks over Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and his side, United head into the New Year battling for a top-four place thanks in part to rivals' inconsistency but also due to the emergence of Martial and Rashford as real attacking threats. The win also ended a run of 14 matches without a clean sheet for United and was their first away since February, although Burnley's shot-shy attack certainly made that task easier. United's midfield was weakened by the absence of midfielder Paul Pogba, still in recovery phase and rested after two recent substitute appearances, and Scott McTominay who Solskjaer says faces up to four weeks out with a knee injury. The Norwegian coach was forced to hand a rare start to Nemanja Matic and, despite the absentees, United had little trouble gaining the upper hand against a cautious Burnley. Rashford forced goalkeeper Nick Pope into action with a long-range free-kick and then hit the post at the end of a swift break while Martial had a shot cleared off the line by Phil Bardsley in the 33rd minute. The French forward got the breakthrough a minute before halftime with a simple finish after Andreas Pereira robbed defender Charlie Taylor and slipped the ball across to Martial. Sean Dyche's Burnley side struggled to create any openings but were more positive after the break and David de Gea had to pull off a fine save in the 68th minute to keep out a low drive from Bardsley. But after a spell of late pressure from the hosts, United wrapped up the win in stoppage time with Dan James breaking and finding Rashford, who rounded Pope and slotted home. United end the year with back-to-back wins, following a 4-1 victory over Newcastle United on Boxing Day and the concerns raised by Solskjaer after the recent loss at Watford seem to have had the desired impact. "We want to get (in the top four) and we’re not far away. We did (challenge) towards the end of last season as well, we were close to the top four, but then we dropped off," he said. “Now they’ve responded to the defeat against Watford, I put a challenge to them and they’ve put my words to shame so I’m very happy with them”. Rashford is developing an impressive understanding with Martial and took time to praise the Frenchman, who scored twice in the win over Newcastle. "He was brilliant again today. For a forward, there's nothing better than scoring goals. Hopefully, it keeps his confidence high and this can continue until the end of the season," he said.

Premier League: Manchester United up to fifth with 2-0 win at Burnley

Liverpool's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/irresistible-liverpool-thrash-leicester-270476">resounding 4-0 win</a> at second-placed Leicester City on Boxing Day sent them 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League but Juergen Klopp's side have no time or inclination to bask in their success.

On Sunday, Liverpool are back in action against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield before another tricky home game against Sheffield United on Thursday.

Wolves are a team capable of upsetting anyone in the league but there was nothing in the impressive swatting aside of Leicester that suggests Liverpool are about to stumble.

They have the joint biggest lead in top-flight history at this stage of the campaign and no team has ever failed to win the title with an advantage of this size.

Already there is talk of Liverpool going through the league entire season unbeaten - matching the 'The Invincibles' of Arsenal in 2003/04 and Preston North End in 1888/89.

It may be predictable but Klopp is surely wise to avoid such discussions, especially as his club have never won the Premier League and are without a domestic league title for 30 years.

"I can write the stories myself: the first story is that never before in the history of football, British football at least, has a team had a bigger lead and lost the lead," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-klopp-says-hectic-christmas-schedule-is-a-crime-270337">Klopp</a>.

"So that sounds in my ear negative, so why should we think about something like that? We are just focused on the next (games).

"We play Wolves, Sheffield United, Everton (in the FA Cup third round), Tottenham and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-martial-scores-twice-as-manchester-united-crush-newcastle-270486">Manchester United</a> in the next five games. That doesn’t sound like anything is decided in my ears, to be honest," he said.

Closest battles&nbsp;

Barring an unlikely Liverpool collapse, the closest battles this season are going to be for the top four places and at the bottom of the table.

Chelsea need&nbsp;to quickly sort out their form -&nbsp;they have lost five of their last seven league games - and on Sunday they make the short trip across London to face Arsenal in Mikel Arteta's first home game in charge.

Chelsea have been better away from Stamford Bridge this season, with six wins in nine, but the Gunners, down in 11th place, sorely need to kick-start their season if they are to have any chance of European football next term.

Leicester have suffered successive defeats, to Manchester City and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Liverpool</a>, and will be anxious to keep their Champions League push on track with a win at struggling West Ham United.

Manchester City, who are at Wolves later on Friday, host surprise package, promoted Sheffield United who are in sixth place, on Sunday.

Manchester United, fresh from hammering Newcastle United 4-1 on Boxing Day, have a short trip to Burnley, while Spurs are away to bottom club Norwich City.

Liverpool's resounding 4-0 win at second-placed Leicester City on Boxing Day sent them 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League but Juergen Klopp's side have no time or inclination to bask in their success.

Liverpool's resounding 4-0 win at second-placed Leicester City on Boxing Day sent them 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League but Juergen Klopp's side have no time or inclination to bask in their success. On Sunday, Liverpool are back in action against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield before another tricky home game against Sheffield United on Thursday. Wolves are a team capable of upsetting anyone in the league but there was nothing in the impressive swatting aside of Leicester that suggests Liverpool are about to stumble. They have the joint biggest lead in top-flight history at this stage of the campaign and no team has ever failed to win the title with an advantage of this size. Already there is talk of Liverpool going through the league entire season unbeaten - matching the 'The Invincibles' of Arsenal in 2003/04 and Preston North End in 1888/89. It may be predictable but Klopp is surely wise to avoid such discussions, especially as his club have never won the Premier League and are without a domestic league title for 30 years. "I can write the stories myself: the first story is that never before in the history of football, British football at least, has a team had a bigger lead and lost the lead," said Klopp. "So that sounds in my ear negative, so why should we think about something like that? We are just focused on the next (games). "We play Wolves, Sheffield United, Everton (in the FA Cup third round), Tottenham and Manchester United in the next five games. That doesn’t sound like anything is decided in my ears, to be honest," he said. Closest battles Barring an unlikely Liverpool collapse, the closest battles this season are going to be for the top four places and at the bottom of the table. Chelsea need to quickly sort out their form - they have lost five of their last seven league games - and on Sunday they make the short trip across London to face Arsenal in Mikel Arteta's first home game in charge. Chelsea have been better away from Stamford Bridge this season, with six wins in nine, but the Gunners, down in 11th place, sorely need to kick-start their season if they are to have any chance of European football next term. Leicester have suffered successive defeats, to Manchester City and Liverpool, and will be anxious to keep their Champions League push on track with a win at struggling West Ham United. Manchester City, who are at Wolves later on Friday, host surprise package, promoted Sheffield United who are in sixth place, on Sunday. Manchester United, fresh from hammering Newcastle United 4-1 on Boxing Day, have a short trip to Burnley, while Spurs are away to bottom club Norwich City.

Football: Relentless Liverpool have no time for reflection

Tottenham Hotspur coach Jose Mourinho has lashed out at the Premier League's congested fixture list over the Christmas period which means his side have to travel to face Norwich City two days after beating Brighton &amp; Hove Albion 2-1 on Thursday.

Spurs were without <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mourinho-confirms-tottenham-appeal-against-wrong-red-for-son-269877">suspended forward Son Heung-min</a> and will be without the South Korean against Norwich in addition to Moussa Sissoko and Harry Winks who picked up fifth yellow cards of the season against Brighton.

Tottenham visits Southampton on January&nbsp;1 for a fourth Premier League game in 11 days.

"It's a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-klopp-says-hectic-christmas-schedule-is-a-crime-270337">crime</a> that they are playing again on the 28th, it's against every rule of physiology and biology," Mourinho told a news conference after his side overcame Brighton thanks to second-half strikes from Harry Kane and Dele Alli.

"It's against every rule, but that's how it is and now we have three players suspended, it's completely unfair."

The Portuguese was echoing criticism of the schedule made by Liverpool coach Juergen Klopp, who said there was no reason why teams only had two days to rest between games.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-leicester-break-club-record-with-4-1-win-at-villa-267125">Leicester City</a> manager Brendan Rodgers described the calendar as "nonsense".

Brighton coach Graham Potter joined Mourinho in complaining about the impact of the games on players but said he understood that the number of fixtures over the holiday period boosted the Premier League's global appeal.

"It's very difficult in terms of selecting players, scientists who know about recovery would say it's not good but it's the Premier League, the schedule and we have to adapt," Potter said.

"It's a tricky one, on one hand, the league gives clubs lots of resources to cope with the demands. I understand it's good for the league having all these matches over Christmas but it's a different thing in terms of the performances of players."

The Premier League is introducing a winter break later this season to bring England into line with Europe's other major leagues, so each team will enjoy a free weekend in February.

But Potter said one week without games would not compensate for the extra strain during the festive period.

"The break is okay but it's not the main issue, which is that you play on December&nbsp;26 and then December&nbsp;28 and the impact that has on players," he added.

Tottenham Hotspur coach Jose Mourinho has lashed out at the Premier League's congested fixture list over the Christmas period which means his side have to travel to face Norwich City two days after beating Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1 on Thursday.

Tottenham Hotspur coach Jose Mourinho has lashed out at the Premier League's congested fixture list over the Christmas period which means his side have to travel to face Norwich City two days after beating Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1 on Thursday. Spurs were without suspended forward Son Heung-min and will be without the South Korean against Norwich in addition to Moussa Sissoko and Harry Winks who picked up fifth yellow cards of the season against Brighton. Tottenham visits Southampton on January 1 for a fourth Premier League game in 11 days. "It's a crime that they are playing again on the 28th, it's against every rule of physiology and biology," Mourinho told a news conference after his side overcame Brighton thanks to second-half strikes from Harry Kane and Dele Alli. "It's against every rule, but that's how it is and now we have three players suspended, it's completely unfair." The Portuguese was echoing criticism of the schedule made by Liverpool coach Juergen Klopp, who said there was no reason why teams only had two days to rest between games. Leicester City manager Brendan Rodgers described the calendar as "nonsense". Brighton coach Graham Potter joined Mourinho in complaining about the impact of the games on players but said he understood that the number of fixtures over the holiday period boosted the Premier League's global appeal. "It's very difficult in terms of selecting players, scientists who know about recovery would say it's not good but it's the Premier League, the schedule and we have to adapt," Potter said. "It's a tricky one, on one hand, the league gives clubs lots of resources to cope with the demands. I understand it's good for the league having all these matches over Christmas but it's a different thing in terms of the performances of players." The Premier League is introducing a winter break later this season to bring England into line with Europe's other major leagues, so each team will enjoy a free weekend in February. But Potter said one week without games would not compensate for the extra strain during the festive period. "The break is okay but it's not the main issue, which is that you play on December 26 and then December 28 and the impact that has on players," he added.

Premier League: It's a crime - Jose Mourinho rages against festive fixture pile-up

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlo-ancelotti-everton-will-play-attractive-football-269894">Carlo Ancelotti</a> enjoyed a winning start as Everton manager with an 80th-minute Dominic Calvert-Lewin header earning a 1-0 Premier League win over Burnley at Goodison Park on Thursday.

Burnley had been typically resilient in defence, while posing few questions of Everton, and it took a high-quality finish to separate the sides.

Djibril Sidibe whipped in a cross from the right which Calvert-Lewin met with a superb angled diving header which flew in off the inside of the far post.

Sidibe had gone closest to breaking the deadlock with a low drive in the 32nd minute which Burnley keeper Nick Pope did well to keep out with his leg.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/burnley-fan-13-investigated-for-alleged-racist-gesture-towards-son-267397">Burnley</a>'s best opening came three minutes later when an Ashley Westwood free kick found Chris Wood at the back post but the New Zealander headed over the bar from a promising position.

Italian Ancelotti, a Champions League winner with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ac-milan-offer-ibrahimovic-six-month-deal-reports-263650">AC Milan</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-real-madrid-draw-as-clasico-marred-by-violence-269061">Real Madrid</a> was appointed by Everton on Saturday to replace the sacked Marco Silva.

Carlo Ancelotti enjoyed a winning start as Everton manager with an 80th-minute Dominic Calvert-Lewin header earning a 1-0 Premier League win over Burnley at Goodison Park on Thursday.

Carlo Ancelotti enjoyed a winning start as Everton manager with an 80th-minute Dominic Calvert-Lewin header earning a 1-0 Premier League win over Burnley at Goodison Park on Thursday. Burnley had been typically resilient in defence, while posing few questions of Everton, and it took a high-quality finish to separate the sides. Djibril Sidibe whipped in a cross from the right which Calvert-Lewin met with a superb angled diving header which flew in off the inside of the far post. Sidibe had gone closest to breaking the deadlock with a low drive in the 32nd minute which Burnley keeper Nick Pope did well to keep out with his leg. Burnley's best opening came three minutes later when an Ashley Westwood free kick found Chris Wood at the back post but the New Zealander headed over the bar from a promising position. Italian Ancelotti, a Champions League winner with AC Milan and Real Madrid was appointed by Everton on Saturday to replace the sacked Marco Silva.

Premier League: Ancelotti gets winning start as Everton beat Burnley

Anthony Martial scored twice as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-rashford-martial-dont-need-haaland-berbatov-269072">Manchester United</a> hit back in emphatic fashion from a rocky start against a benevolent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-bruce-replaces-rafa-benitezas-newcastle-united-head-coach-236628">Newcastle United</a> to open their Christmas programme with a 4-1 victory at Old Trafford on Thursday.

After a 2-0 loss at Watford last weekend, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-will-reinforce-squad-in-january-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-256463">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> had demanded a response from his players but a yellow card for Scott McTominay after 24 seconds and going behind to Matty Longstaff's 17th-minute goal was not what he had in mind.

It was all smiles later though as Newcastle folded and Martial, Mason Greenwood and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rashford-can-be-as-good-as-cristiano-ronaldo-says-solskjaer-267421">Marcus Rashford</a> all struck before halftime before Martial scored again early in the second half as United moved back to seventh, four points off the top four.

United have now won 21 Premier League games on Boxing Day for a win percentage of 81 per cent&nbsp;more than any other club.

With midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-uniteds-pogba-out-until-december-with-ankle-injury-258456">Paul Pogba</a> also coming on after halftime, only his second appearance since September because of injury, United will hope to end an up-and-down year with a flourish with a trip to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/burnley-fan-13-investigated-for-alleged-racist-gesture-towards-son-267397">Burnley</a> looming on the horizon on Saturday.

"Against Watford we were not good enough for our standard but the boys showed a great intensity today and we thoroughly deserved the three points," defender Harry Maguire said.

"We have now got a big game in two days and our story so far has been a good performance and then a not so good one."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/late-fernandez-strike-gives-newcastle-2-1-win-over-southampton-267124">Newcastle</a> have made steady progress up the table under former United defender Steve Bruce and could have gone above United with a win on Thursday. So when 19-year-old Longstaff tucked his shot past David de Gea after linking well with Joelinton the away fans went wild.

It was Longstaff who scored the winner in the reverse fixture at St James' Park this season, but any sense of dread for the Old Trafford faithful soon diminished as United sparked into life to play some flowing football.

Six minutes after Longstaff's goal, United were level with Martial's shot squeezing in at the near post when Newcastle keeper Martin Dubravka should really have kept it out.

Newcastle offered United another gift as they tried to play out from the back but merely gave the ball to 18-year-old Greenwood who thumped a left-footed cracker in off the crossbar.

It was Greenwood's ninth goal of the season in all competitions and his emergence as a genuine goal threat has lifted the weight of expectation off the shoulders of Rashford who made it 15 for the season when he rose to head home Aaron Wan-Bissaka's inviting cross before halftime.

Newcastle's slipshod defending reached its nadir in the 51st minute when Sean Longstaff's careless back pass was pounced upon by Martial who Dubravka with ease.

"We had a horrible 20 minutes before halftime," Newcastle boss Steve Bruce said. "For the last two or three months we have been hard to beat. I know it's Christmas but I don't think Man Utd can believe it, we've made too many mistakes."

Newcastle, who have now lost more Boxing Day games in the Premier League than any other side (14) remain in 10th spot.

Anthony Martial scored twice as Manchester United hit back in emphatic fashion from a rocky start against a benevolent Newcastle United to open their Christmas programme with a 4-1 victory at Old Trafford on Thursday.

Anthony Martial scored twice as Manchester United hit back in emphatic fashion from a rocky start against a benevolent Newcastle United to open their Christmas programme with a 4-1 victory at Old Trafford on Thursday. After a 2-0 loss at Watford last weekend, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had demanded a response from his players but a yellow card for Scott McTominay after 24 seconds and going behind to Matty Longstaff's 17th-minute goal was not what he had in mind. It was all smiles later though as Newcastle folded and Martial, Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford all struck before halftime before Martial scored again early in the second half as United moved back to seventh, four points off the top four. United have now won 21 Premier League games on Boxing Day for a win percentage of 81 per cent more than any other club. With midfielder Paul Pogba also coming on after halftime, only his second appearance since September because of injury, United will hope to end an up-and-down year with a flourish with a trip to Burnley looming on the horizon on Saturday. "Against Watford we were not good enough for our standard but the boys showed a great intensity today and we thoroughly deserved the three points," defender Harry Maguire said. "We have now got a big game in two days and our story so far has been a good performance and then a not so good one." Newcastle have made steady progress up the table under former United defender Steve Bruce and could have gone above United with a win on Thursday. So when 19-year-old Longstaff tucked his shot past David de Gea after linking well with Joelinton the away fans went wild. It was Longstaff who scored the winner in the reverse fixture at St James' Park this season, but any sense of dread for the Old Trafford faithful soon diminished as United sparked into life to play some flowing football. Six minutes after Longstaff's goal, United were level with Martial's shot squeezing in at the near post when Newcastle keeper Martin Dubravka should really have kept it out. Newcastle offered United another gift as they tried to play out from the back but merely gave the ball to 18-year-old Greenwood who thumped a left-footed cracker in off the crossbar. It was Greenwood's ninth goal of the season in all competitions and his emergence as a genuine goal threat has lifted the weight of expectation off the shoulders of Rashford who made it 15 for the season when he rose to head home Aaron Wan-Bissaka's inviting cross before halftime. Newcastle's slipshod defending reached its nadir in the 51st minute when Sean Longstaff's careless back pass was pounced upon by Martial who Dubravka with ease. "We had a horrible 20 minutes before halftime," Newcastle boss Steve Bruce said. "For the last two or three months we have been hard to beat. I know it's Christmas but I don't think Man Utd can believe it, we've made too many mistakes." Newcastle, who have now lost more Boxing Day games in the Premier League than any other side (14) remain in 10th spot.

Premier League: Martial scores twice as Manchester United crush Newcastle

Liverpool moved 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League after hammering their closest challengers, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-leicester-break-club-record-with-4-1-win-at-villa-267125">Leicester City</a>, 4-0 at the King Power Stadium on Thursday with Roberto Firmino scoring twice.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlo-ancelotti-everton-will-play-attractive-football-269894">Carlo Ancelotti</a> got off to a winning start as Everton manager but new Arsenal boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-arsenal-boss-arteta-demands-accountability-from-players-269895">Mikel Arteta</a> had to settle for a draw at Bournemouth in the Premier League on Thursday.

Fourth-placed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Chelsea</a> suffered a shock 2-0 loss at home to Southampton while Harry Kane and Dele Alli were on target as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mourinho-confirms-tottenham-appeal-against-wrong-red-for-son-269877">Tottenham Hotspur</a> came from behind to beat Brighton &amp; Hove Albion 2-1.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-rashford-martial-dont-need-haaland-berbatov-269072">Manchester United</a> recovered from a rocky start at home to Newcastle United to win 4-1 with Anthony Martial scoring twice.

Fresh from being crowned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Club World Cup winners</a> in Doha, Qatar, Liverpool faced what was billed as being their toughest test of the season, away to former manager Brendan Rodgers' Leicester, who were unbeaten at home this season.

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-klopp-says-hectic-christmas-schedule-is-a-crime-270337">Juergen Klopp</a>'s side delivered yet another emphatic performance as they stepped up their bid for a first league title in 30 years.

Liverpool went ahead in the 31st minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold, superb throughout, drifted a cross from the left to Brazilian Firmino at the back post, who nodded home.

Substitute James Milner made it 2-0 in the 71st minute from the penalty spot after Alexander-Arnold's corner was handled by Caglar Soyuncu.

Firmino then made it 3-0, collecting and firing home a powerfully struck low-cross from Alexander-Arnold before the full-back completed the win with a blistering low drive after being set up by Sadio Mane.

Liverpool have 52 points from 18 games; Leicester are on 39 points from 19 matches and Manchester City are 14 points behind the leaders before their game at Wolves on Sunday.

Italian Ancelotti, a Champions League winner with AC Milan and Real Madrid, was appointed by Everton on Saturday to replace the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-everton-sack-manager-silva-after-merseyside-derby-humbling-266568">sacked Marco Silva</a> and was given a warm welcome by the Goodison Park crowd.

A scrappy game was decided 10 minutes from the end when Djibril Sidibe whipped in a cross from the right which Dominic Calvert-Lewin met with a superb angled diving header that flew in off the inside of the far post.

It was a less enjoyable start for former Everton midfielder Arteta, as he took charge of Arsenal for the first time at Bournemouth.

Arteta restored <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arsenal-star-mesut-ozil-condemns-muslim-silence-over-uighurs-268231">Mesut Ozil</a> to the starting line-up and the German forward looked sharp in the opening exchanges, but chances were rare.

Arsenal's sloppiness was punished when they gave the ball away cheaply on the left wing and Bournemouth sliced through them quickly, midfielder Dan Gosling stabbing home Jack Stacey's centre from close range to give the home side the lead.

The Gunners equalised in the 63rd minute as Reiss Nelson's shot deflected into the path of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and he swivelled to rifle the ball home.

Poor form&nbsp;

Chelsea's poor form continued with goals from Michael Obafemi and Nathan Redmond earned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/late-fernandez-strike-gives-newcastle-2-1-win-over-southampton-267124">Southampton</a> a surprise victory at Stamford Bridge and condemned Frank Lampard's side to their fifth defeat in seven league games.

Obafemi broke the deadlock with his first goal of the season, bursting inside from the right and curling into the top corner after a tight opening half-hour.

The Saints added their second when Redmond nicked the ball over the advancing Kepa Arrizabalaga to finish a slick attack.

Spurs were also facing a possible upset until Kane followed up his own shot to equalise in the 53rd minute and cancel out Adam Webster's first-half header.

Alli got the winner in the 72nd minute with a brilliant lofted finish as he met a Serge Aurier ball.

After losing to Watford last weekend Manchester United needed a response against Newcastle to stay in the frame for a top-four spot but fell behind to Matty Longstaff's opener.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-will-reinforce-squad-in-january-says-ole-gunnar-solskjaer-256463">Ole&nbsp;Gunnar Solskjaer</a>'s youngsters hit back in style though with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-rashford-martial-dont-need-haaland-berbatov-269072">Martial</a> equalising before Mason Greenwood and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-rashford-martial-dont-need-haaland-berbatov-269072">Marcus Rashford</a> made it 3-1 before the break.

Martial added his second after the interval as United moved into seventh spot, four points behind Chelsea.

In the crucial basement battle substitute, Conor Hourihane got the winner for Aston Villa in their 1-0 win over fellow strugglers Norwich City to end a four-match losing run.

Watford moved off bottom spot, above Norwich, with a hard-earned draw at in-form Sheffield United.

Gerard Deulofeu's goal on the break put Watford ahead but Oliver Norwood's penalty ensured the points were shared.

A magnificent solo goal in the 90th minute from Jordan Ayew secured a 2-1 win for Crystal Palace at home to West Ham United.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-stage-comeback-to-sink-west-ham-and-end-winless-run-267402">West Ham</a> had grabbed the lead through Robert Snodgrass but former Hammer Cheikhou Kouyate equalised before Ayew's jinking run and fine finish sealed the points for Roy Hodgson's side.

&nbsp;

Liverpool moved 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League after hammering their closest challengers, Leicester City, 4-0 at the King Power Stadium on Thursday with Roberto Firmino scoring twice.

Liverpool moved 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League after hammering their closest challengers, Leicester City, 4-0 at the King Power Stadium on Thursday with Roberto Firmino scoring twice. Carlo Ancelotti got off to a winning start as Everton manager but new Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta had to settle for a draw at Bournemouth in the Premier League on Thursday. Fourth-placed Chelsea suffered a shock 2-0 loss at home to Southampton while Harry Kane and Dele Alli were on target as Tottenham Hotspur came from behind to beat Brighton & Hove Albion 2-1. Manchester United recovered from a rocky start at home to Newcastle United to win 4-1 with Anthony Martial scoring twice. Fresh from being crowned Club World Cup winners in Doha, Qatar, Liverpool faced what was billed as being their toughest test of the season, away to former manager Brendan Rodgers' Leicester, who were unbeaten at home this season. But Juergen Klopp's side delivered yet another emphatic performance as they stepped up their bid for a first league title in 30 years. Liverpool went ahead in the 31st minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold, superb throughout, drifted a cross from the left to Brazilian Firmino at the back post, who nodded home. Substitute James Milner made it 2-0 in the 71st minute from the penalty spot after Alexander-Arnold's corner was handled by Caglar Soyuncu. Firmino then made it 3-0, collecting and firing home a powerfully struck low-cross from Alexander-Arnold before the full-back completed the win with a blistering low drive after being set up by Sadio Mane. Liverpool have 52 points from 18 games; Leicester are on 39 points from 19 matches and Manchester City are 14 points behind the leaders before their game at Wolves on Sunday. Italian Ancelotti, a Champions League winner with AC Milan and Real Madrid, was appointed by Everton on Saturday to replace the sacked Marco Silva and was given a warm welcome by the Goodison Park crowd. A scrappy game was decided 10 minutes from the end when Djibril Sidibe whipped in a cross from the right which Dominic Calvert-Lewin met with a superb angled diving header that flew in off the inside of the far post. It was a less enjoyable start for former Everton midfielder Arteta, as he took charge of Arsenal for the first time at Bournemouth. Arteta restored Mesut Ozil to the starting line-up and the German forward looked sharp in the opening exchanges, but chances were rare. Arsenal's sloppiness was punished when they gave the ball away cheaply on the left wing and Bournemouth sliced through them quickly, midfielder Dan Gosling stabbing home Jack Stacey's centre from close range to give the home side the lead. The Gunners equalised in the 63rd minute as Reiss Nelson's shot deflected into the path of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and he swivelled to rifle the ball home. Poor form Chelsea's poor form continued with goals from Michael Obafemi and Nathan Redmond earned Southampton a surprise victory at Stamford Bridge and condemned Frank Lampard's side to their fifth defeat in seven league games. Obafemi broke the deadlock with his first goal of the season, bursting inside from the right and curling into the top corner after a tight opening half-hour. The Saints added their second when Redmond nicked the ball over the advancing Kepa Arrizabalaga to finish a slick attack. Spurs were also facing a possible upset until Kane followed up his own shot to equalise in the 53rd minute and cancel out Adam Webster's first-half header. Alli got the winner in the 72nd minute with a brilliant lofted finish as he met a Serge Aurier ball. After losing to Watford last weekend Manchester United needed a response against Newcastle to stay in the frame for a top-four spot but fell behind to Matty Longstaff's opener. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's youngsters hit back in style though with Martial equalising before Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford made it 3-1 before the break. Martial added his second after the interval as United moved into seventh spot, four points behind Chelsea. In the crucial basement battle substitute, Conor Hourihane got the winner for Aston Villa in their 1-0 win over fellow strugglers Norwich City to end a four-match losing run. Watford moved off bottom spot, above Norwich, with a hard-earned draw at in-form Sheffield United. Gerard Deulofeu's goal on the break put Watford ahead but Oliver Norwood's penalty ensured the points were shared. A magnificent solo goal in the 90th minute from Jordan Ayew secured a 2-1 win for Crystal Palace at home to West Ham United. West Ham had grabbed the lead through Robert Snodgrass but former Hammer Cheikhou Kouyate equalised before Ayew's jinking run and fine finish sealed the points for Roy Hodgson's side.

Premier League: Irresistible Liverpool thrash Leicester

Swedish football god&nbsp;Zlatan&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;has reached agreement to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/see-you-soon-in-italy-ibrahimovic-fuels-talk-of-serie-a-return-266184">join AC Milan</a> on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday.

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;has accepted Milan's proposal and is ready to sign a deal to return to the former European giants within the next two days, Gazzetta Dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported.&nbsp;

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;will reportedly sign a six-month contract worth about three million euros ($3.3 million) with a renewal option for another year, linked to certain conditions such as goals and appearances.

The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last month following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs.

The Swede should be available to coach Stefano Pioli as early as December 30, the date of the resumption of training at Milanello.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ac-milan-offer-ibrahimovic-six-month-deal-reports-263650">AC Milan</a> are reeling after a 5-0 thrashing against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-atalanta-fight-back-to-draw-with-manchester-city-260410">Atalanta</a> last weekend, their worst defeat in 21 years, and are struggling 11th in the Serie A table.

The team's first game after the winter break will be at home against Sampdoria on January 6.

It is hoped that&nbsp;Ibrahimovic&nbsp;will bring some leadership and a winning mentality to the locker room.

Milan club manager Zvonimir Boban, a former midfield great with the club, slammed "an embarrassing performance" against Atalanta.&nbsp;

"We will have to wake up and react. It will not be a good Christmas," said the Croatian.

Ibrahimovic&nbsp;played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/five-players-to-watch-in-serie-a-245166">Serie A</a> title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances.

He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mandzukic-joins-qatars-al-duhail-from-juventus-270107">Juventus</a>, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Swedish football god Zlatan Ibrahimovic has reached agreement to join AC Milan on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday.

Swedish football god Zlatan Ibrahimovic has reached agreement to join AC Milan on an initial six-month contract, according to multiple reports in Italy on Thursday. Ibrahimovic has accepted Milan's proposal and is ready to sign a deal to return to the former European giants within the next two days, Gazzetta Dello Sport and Sky Sports Italia reported. Ibrahimovic will reportedly sign a six-month contract worth about three million euros ($3.3 million) with a renewal option for another year, linked to certain conditions such as goals and appearances. The 38-year-old striker confirmed his departure from Los Angeles Galaxy last month following the club's elimination from the Major League Soccer playoffs. The Swede should be available to coach Stefano Pioli as early as December 30, the date of the resumption of training at Milanello. AC Milan are reeling after a 5-0 thrashing against Atalanta last weekend, their worst defeat in 21 years, and are struggling 11th in the Serie A table. The team's first game after the winter break will be at home against Sampdoria on January 6. It is hoped that Ibrahimovic will bring some leadership and a winning mentality to the locker room. Milan club manager Zvonimir Boban, a former midfield great with the club, slammed "an embarrassing performance" against Atalanta. "We will have to wake up and react. It will not be a good Christmas," said the Croatian. Ibrahimovic played for two seasons between 2010 and 2012 with AC Milan, helping them to their last Serie A title, and scoring 42 goals in 61 league appearances. He also won three league titles with Inter Milan, and two with Juventus, which were both revoked following the 'Calciopoli' match-fixing scandal.

Football: Ibrahimovic set for AC Milan return - Reports

Real Kashmir Football Club on Thursday played their first home game after the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status. A large crowd had gathered to witness the first big football game of this year in the valley. The game played between Real Kashmir FC and Chennai City was nail-biting as the hosts scored two goals to defeat the visiting side by 2-1.&nbsp;

This was also the first time that such a big gathering was allowed in the city after the abrogation of Article 370. Although the stadium has a capacity of 15,000, only 2,000 tickets were kept available for the people keeping in view the law and order situation.

The enthusiastic crowd kept cheering for the home club throughout the match. BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav was also present to witness the game. Madhav said that he is a fan of Real Kashmir FC and would want the team to win the cup.&nbsp;

"It's after a long time that a great football match was to take place and I came to watch it. I am a fan of Real Kashmir FC. I came late but the team scored two goals while I was there. They won and I am congratulating them. My best wishes to the team," said Madhav after witnessing the game.&nbsp;

Real Kashmir Football Club in Kashmir is making a slow rise which has caught the imagination of football fans across the globe for the last three years. All the sporting activities came to a grinding halt after government-imposed restrictions in the Kashmir valley, just days before the abrogation of article 370 and 35-A of the Indian constitution.

"I study in Chennai and I came here to watch this match. This club inspires us towards sports activities. Be it hot or cold, people in Kashmir turn up to support this club," said a boy, who had come for the game.&nbsp;

The Real Kashmir FC has already qualified I-league and beaten the top Indian football clubs. The club has created waves at the Indian domestic league and what's special now is that the team has got the backing of sportswear giant Addidas.&nbsp;

Also known as the 'snow leopard', Real Kashmir Football Club is the first such team that is uniting Kashmir. Recently, the team added players from Nigeria and Scotland to their colours which is attracting more people to witness the game being played under the winter sun.&nbsp;

Real Kashmir Football Club on Thursday played their first home game after the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status. A large crowd had gathered to witness the first big football game of this year in the valley.

Real Kashmir Football Club on Thursday played their first home game after the abrogation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status. A large crowd had gathered to witness the first big football game of this year in the valley. The game played between Real Kashmir FC and Chennai City was nail-biting as the hosts scored two goals to defeat the visiting side by 2-1. This was also the first time that such a big gathering was allowed in the city after the abrogation of Article 370. Although the stadium has a capacity of 15,000, only 2,000 tickets were kept available for the people keeping in view the law and order situation. The enthusiastic crowd kept cheering for the home club throughout the match. BJP national general secretary Ram Madhav was also present to witness the game. Madhav said that he is a fan of Real Kashmir FC and would want the team to win the cup. "It's after a long time that a great football match was to take place and I came to watch it. I am a fan of Real Kashmir FC. I came late but the team scored two goals while I was there. They won and I am congratulating them. My best wishes to the team," said Madhav after witnessing the game. Real Kashmir Football Club in Kashmir is making a slow rise which has caught the imagination of football fans across the globe for the last three years. All the sporting activities came to a grinding halt after government-imposed restrictions in the Kashmir valley, just days before the abrogation of article 370 and 35-A of the Indian constitution. "I study in Chennai and I came here to watch this match. This club inspires us towards sports activities. Be it hot or cold, people in Kashmir turn up to support this club," said a boy, who had come for the game. The Real Kashmir FC has already qualified I-league and beaten the top Indian football clubs. The club has created waves at the Indian domestic league and what's special now is that the team has got the backing of sportswear giant Addidas. Also known as the 'snow leopard', Real Kashmir Football Club is the first such team that is uniting Kashmir. Recently, the team added players from Nigeria and Scotland to their colours which is attracting more people to witness the game being played under the winter sun.

Kashmir: Football returns after five months, Real Kashmir FC defeat Chennai City 2-1

The first football game of this year post abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir was held today. BJP National Secretary Ram Madhav also attended the match. Watch this video to know more of the story. #WION #Football #J&K

India: Football makes a comeback in J&K

England football team chief Gareth Southgate in a recent interview with a British channel said&nbsp;that he would be "disappointed"&nbsp;not to be linked to any Premier League club manager position. Under his guidance, England for the first time since the 1990 World Cup had reached the&nbsp;semi-final.

The latest FIFA world rankings has&nbsp;put the England team in the number four position&nbsp;after Belgium, France and Brazil, respectively. Southgate has also managed to guarantee England's place in the Euro 2020 having won the qualification match against Bulgaria, Kosovo and Montenegro.&nbsp;

However, Southgate still has hopes for the English team and said he has goals to achieve before he leaves his position. During the interview with&nbsp;the British channel, he was quoted as saying that he was&nbsp;"completely fulfilled in the role" and that it was&nbsp;a "privilege"&nbsp;to be the England&nbsp;manager.

"Sometimes in life we are always looking at what's coming next and not relishing how fortunate we are to be in the position that we are in," he said.

Southgate has said that he is very dedicated to his current job and responsibilities as manager of the England team, which is why he said he believes that his "phone hasn't been ringing".

However, the national team manager was quoted saying that "somewhere in between that, there is going to be something else. I'd be disappointed if I wasn't linked with some of those jobs if I'm honest".

England are&nbsp;all set to open their Euro 2020 campaign in a group-stage match against Croatia, on June 14, 2020. England are in Group D.

England football team chief Gareth Southgate in a recent interview with a British channel said that he would be "disappointed" not to be linked to any Premier League club manager position.

England football team chief Gareth Southgate in a recent interview with a British channel said that he would be "disappointed" not to be linked to any Premier League club manager position. Under his guidance, England for the first time since the 1990 World Cup had reached the semi-final. The latest FIFA world rankings has put the England team in the number four position after Belgium, France and Brazil, respectively. Southgate has also managed to guarantee England's place in the Euro 2020 having won the qualification match against Bulgaria, Kosovo and Montenegro. However, Southgate still has hopes for the English team and said he has goals to achieve before he leaves his position. During the interview with the British channel, he was quoted as saying that he was "completely fulfilled in the role" and that it was a "privilege" to be the England manager. "Sometimes in life we are always looking at what's coming next and not relishing how fortunate we are to be in the position that we are in," he said. Southgate has said that he is very dedicated to his current job and responsibilities as manager of the England team, which is why he said he believes that his "phone hasn't been ringing". However, the national team manager was quoted saying that "somewhere in between that, there is going to be something else. I'd be disappointed if I wasn't linked with some of those jobs if I'm honest". England are all set to open their Euro 2020 campaign in a group-stage match against Croatia, on June 14, 2020. England are in Group D.

Football: England chief Southgate 'disappointed' not to be linked with EPL clubs

Liverpool boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-manager-klopp-extends-contract-to-2024-268150">Jurgen&nbsp;Klopp</a>&nbsp;has described the Premier League's hectic festive schedule as a "crime" against some teams that are forced to play two matches in the space of 48 hours.

The league leaders, who won the Club World Cup title by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">beating Brazil's Flamengo</a> last Saturday, take on second-placed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-face-vardy-threat-on-festive-return-to-domestic-action-270023">Leicester City</a> on Thursday and host Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday, but other teams including Manchester City are not as fortunate.

The champions visit Nuno Espirito Santo's Wolves on Friday before welcoming Sheffield United on Sunday, prompting manager Pep <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-pep-guardiola-looking-forward-to-fifth-season-with-manchester-city-269875">Guardiola</a> to write to the league to "thank" them for a demanding schedule.

"It is absolutely not OK,"&nbsp;Klopp&nbsp;told the British media. "There's no reason why more teams do not get more than 48 hours between Premier League games.

"None of the managers have a problem playing on Boxing Day, but playing on the 26th and 28th is a crime. This year we play 26th and 29th and it's like a holiday."

The likes of Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, Everton, Watford and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-rashford-martial-dont-need-haaland-berbatov-269072">Manchester United</a> all play twice within 48 hours this week.

"I understand all those saying it shouldn't happen. They're not moaning. They're telling,"&nbsp;Klopp&nbsp;added.

"We can say what we want but no one is listening... sports science gives you nothing to deal with this.

"The body needs a specific amount of time to go again. But we ignore that completely."

Liverpool are looking to increase their 10-point advantage over Leicester, while the Foxes will aim to return to winning ways after their nine-match unbeaten run was ended by City.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has described the Premier League's hectic festive schedule as a "crime" against some teams that are forced to play two matches in the space of 48 hours.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has described the Premier League's hectic festive schedule as a "crime" against some teams that are forced to play two matches in the space of 48 hours. The league leaders, who won the Club World Cup title by beating Brazil's Flamengo last Saturday, take on second-placed Leicester City on Thursday and host Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday, but other teams including Manchester City are not as fortunate. The champions visit Nuno Espirito Santo's Wolves on Friday before welcoming Sheffield United on Sunday, prompting manager Pep Guardiola to write to the league to "thank" them for a demanding schedule. "It is absolutely not OK," Klopp told the British media. "There's no reason why more teams do not get more than 48 hours between Premier League games. "None of the managers have a problem playing on Boxing Day, but playing on the 26th and 28th is a crime. This year we play 26th and 29th and it's like a holiday." The likes of Brighton & Hove Albion, Everton, Watford and Manchester United all play twice within 48 hours this week. "I understand all those saying it shouldn't happen. They're not moaning. They're telling," Klopp added. "We can say what we want but no one is listening... sports science gives you nothing to deal with this. "The body needs a specific amount of time to go again. But we ignore that completely." Liverpool are looking to increase their 10-point advantage over Leicester, while the Foxes will aim to return to winning ways after their nine-match unbeaten run was ended by City.

Liverpool's Klopp says hectic Christmas schedule is a 'crime'

Tottenham Hotspur manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mourinho-aiming-to-add-to-chelseas-woes-269130">Jose Mourinho</a> said Son Heung-min had suffered enough as he confirmed the club would appeal against the red card the South Korean received against Chelsea.

Son was dismissed in the second half of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Spurs' 2-0 loss</a> at home to their London rivals on Sunday after the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) deemed he had kicked out at Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger - an incident that led to the alleged racist abuse of the Germany international.

Anthony Talor, the on-field referee, did not punish Son, but a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rule-makers-look-at-ways-of-providing-more-information-about-var-decisions-266170">VAR check</a> saw the player ruled guilty of violent conduct, prompting a red card.

Mourinho was dismayed when a replay of the incident was shown in the ground and Monday saw him announce Spurs' intention to contest the decision as they appeal against a Son dismissal for the second time this season.

Meanwhile, the club is still waiting to discover from the Football Association if Son will be available for Thursday's Boxing Day's clash with Brighton.

"I hope Son is not punished five times," Mourinho said Monday. "One time was the foul that Rudiger did on him.

"The second is to be sent off. The third would be not to play against Brighton. The fourth not to play against Norwich and the fifth not to play against Southampton.

"So I hope to be punished twice is enough, he doesn't deserve for the third the fourth or the fifth."

The experienced Portuguese boss lamented the way in which VAR was being deployed, saying replay official Paul Tierney rather than Taylor, the referee on the pitch, had been in charge of the game.&nbsp;

"Mr Paul Tierney decides yes and Mr Anthony Taylor who was in the game, in real time, five metres from the situation, Mr Taylor decided no," said Mourinho, now managing his third leading English club after stints at Chelsea and Manchester United.

"So who was refereeing the game? Not Mr Taylor. It was Mr Tierney.

"I think not a red card, VAR was to support football, to bring true football, to bring true to the spectacle and they did that with the penalty decision and they killed the game with Son's decision.

"The situation with Son, I think Mr Tierney made it wrong. It's the wrong call."

Dynamic winger Son, a key figure since Mourinho joined Spurs, is set to be suspended for three games if his red card is upheld.

"It would be a big loss," said Mourinho of Son, who joined Tottenham from Germany's Bayer Leverkusen four years ago. "But if that happens then we have to try to cope with it and to fight against injustice."

Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho said Son Heung-min had suffered enough as he confirmed the club would appeal against the red card the South Korean received against Chelsea.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho said Son Heung-min had suffered enough as he confirmed the club would appeal against the red card the South Korean received against Chelsea. Son was dismissed in the second half of Spurs' 2-0 loss at home to their London rivals on Sunday after the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) deemed he had kicked out at Chelsea's Antonio Rudiger - an incident that led to the alleged racist abuse of the Germany international. Anthony Talor, the on-field referee, did not punish Son, but a VAR check saw the player ruled guilty of violent conduct, prompting a red card. Mourinho was dismayed when a replay of the incident was shown in the ground and Monday saw him announce Spurs' intention to contest the decision as they appeal against a Son dismissal for the second time this season. Meanwhile, the club is still waiting to discover from the Football Association if Son will be available for Thursday's Boxing Day's clash with Brighton. "I hope Son is not punished five times," Mourinho said Monday. "One time was the foul that Rudiger did on him. "The second is to be sent off. The third would be not to play against Brighton. The fourth not to play against Norwich and the fifth not to play against Southampton. "So I hope to be punished twice is enough, he doesn't deserve for the third the fourth or the fifth." The experienced Portuguese boss lamented the way in which VAR was being deployed, saying replay official Paul Tierney rather than Taylor, the referee on the pitch, had been in charge of the game. "Mr Paul Tierney decides yes and Mr Anthony Taylor who was in the game, in real time, five metres from the situation, Mr Taylor decided no," said Mourinho, now managing his third leading English club after stints at Chelsea and Manchester United. "So who was refereeing the game? Not Mr Taylor. It was Mr Tierney. "I think not a red card, VAR was to support football, to bring true football, to bring true to the spectacle and they did that with the penalty decision and they killed the game with Son's decision. "The situation with Son, I think Mr Tierney made it wrong. It's the wrong call." Dynamic winger Son, a key figure since Mourinho joined Spurs, is set to be suspended for three games if his red card is upheld. "It would be a big loss," said Mourinho of Son, who joined Tottenham from Germany's Bayer Leverkusen four years ago. "But if that happens then we have to try to cope with it and to fight against injustice."

Mourinho confirms Tottenham appeal against 'wrong' red for Son Heung-min

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Premier League</a> club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season.

City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Liverpool</a> by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him.

"This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

"I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me.

"Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future."

City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-guardiola-takes-dig-at-premier-league-says-thank-you-for-busy-festive-season-269649">Guardiola</a> praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches.

"Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front.

"Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games."

Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week.

"He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all."

Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign. The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season. City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing Liverpool by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him. "This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers. "I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me. "Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future." City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and Guardiola praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches. "Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front. "Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games." Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week. "He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all." Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

I have to see if I deserve a new contract: Pep Guardiola

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-and-neymar-dazzle-as-psg-thrash-galatasaray-267850">Kylian Mbappe</a> is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-cruise-into-league-cup-quarters-without-rested-neymar-269109">Paris Saint-Germain</a> over participation.

"Playing in the Olympics, I don't control everything," he told France Football magazine in an interview to be published on Tuesday. "Of course I want to go, but if my club, which is my employer, doesn't want me to go, I won't force a clash.

"We'll soon talk about it," said the 21-year-old, who already has a World Cup winner's medal.

Mbappe had already dropped an Olympic hint when he responded to the French team's qualification in June with a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/more-tokyo-olympic-events-rescheduled-due-to-heat-concern-266444">TOKYO 2020</a>" tweet accompanied by a flashing emoticon and a French flag.

Olympic football at Tokyo, an under-23 tournament with each side allowed three overage players, runs from July 22 to August 8, which is also the scheduled date of the start of the French season. Mbappe is also due to play for France at the Euros which run from June 12 to July 12.

If the 21-year-old Parisian star were to be called up by Olympic coach Sylvian Ripoll, he would take his holiday at the start of the club season.&nbsp;

The striker said he had discussed a possible appearance at the Games with France senior coach Didier Deschamps.&nbsp;

"The coach was adamant that it would never be to the detriment of the Euro," Mbappe said. "I reassured him by telling him that I also wanted to play in the Euro, and he said: 'So it's up to you to deal with the people it concerns'.

"If I don't manage to go in 2020, I'll still have 2024 left, in Paris," Mbappe said. "I'd really like to do the Olympics at least once in my career."

Kylian Mbappe is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club Paris Saint-Germain over participation.

Kylian Mbappe is putting himself forward for the French team at next summer's Tokyo Olympics, while adding that he would not want to fight his club Paris Saint-Germain over participation. "Playing in the Olympics, I don't control everything," he told France Football magazine in an interview to be published on Tuesday. "Of course I want to go, but if my club, which is my employer, doesn't want me to go, I won't force a clash. "We'll soon talk about it," said the 21-year-old, who already has a World Cup winner's medal. Mbappe had already dropped an Olympic hint when he responded to the French team's qualification in June with a "TOKYO 2020" tweet accompanied by a flashing emoticon and a French flag. Olympic football at Tokyo, an under-23 tournament with each side allowed three overage players, runs from July 22 to August 8, which is also the scheduled date of the start of the French season. Mbappe is also due to play for France at the Euros which run from June 12 to July 12. If the 21-year-old Parisian star were to be called up by Olympic coach Sylvian Ripoll, he would take his holiday at the start of the club season. The striker said he had discussed a possible appearance at the Games with France senior coach Didier Deschamps. "The coach was adamant that it would never be to the detriment of the Euro," Mbappe said. "I reassured him by telling him that I also wanted to play in the Euro, and he said: 'So it's up to you to deal with the people it concerns'. "If I don't manage to go in 2020, I'll still have 2024 left, in Paris," Mbappe said. "I'd really like to do the Olympics at least once in my career."

Kylian Mbappe adds Olympic appearance to packed 2020 wish list

Arsenal&nbsp;have&nbsp;a squad that can be improved but the&nbsp;players&nbsp;must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans,&nbsp;new&nbsp;manager Mikel&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;said on Monday.

In his first&nbsp;news conference last week,&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;had demanded "passion and energy"&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;players&nbsp;and the Spaniard said he was satisfied with what he saw during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Everton.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-guardiola-expects-quick-decision-on-arteta-over-arsenal-move-268874">Arteta</a>, 37, will make his managerial debut when 11th-placed&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;travel to Bournemouth on Thursday.

"I think that we have a really good team with a lot to improve,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;told reporters. "I need them all on board. All the meetings we've had is to get everyone on board and so far I'm very happy with the reaction."

"What we are going to transmit to the team is&nbsp;accountability&nbsp;to play for this football club. This is the basic... We are much more committed. The body language (in the Everton draw) was much better and they had much more passion, that is non-negotiable."

Arteta&nbsp;confirmed interim&nbsp;boss&nbsp;Freddie Ljungberg, who took charge for six games following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sacked-unai-emery-honoured-to-coach-arsenal-265333">Unai Emery</a>'s sacking, will stay on as a member of the coaching staff.

"I spoke to him after the game,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;added. "I told him who I want to bring in and I wanted to know what he was feeling. We decided the best thing would be for him to carry on with us.

"I knew&nbsp;him a little and we will start a&nbsp;new&nbsp;chapter and he was very positive."

Arteta&nbsp;also said midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-censor-ozil-but-cannot-hide-human-rights-violations-against-uighurs-pompeo-268791">Mesut Ozil</a> was a part of his plans despite Ljungberg's unhappiness over the German's conduct during&nbsp;Arsenal's 3-0 defeat by Manchester City earlier this month.

Ozil kicked his gloves in frustration after being withdrawn in the 59th minute and Ljungberg said his unacceptable conduct would have prevented him&nbsp;from&nbsp;being selected at Everton had he been fit for the match.

"It's a question for Freddie,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;said. "I just wanted him to pick the best possible lineup for the game. You're not going to be judged on what you done in the past, positive or negative.

"We will try to put the most competitive team out, we are to be ready and nullify them as much as possible."

Arsenal have a squad that can be improved but the players must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans, new manager Mikel Arteta said on Monday.

Arsenal have a squad that can be improved but the players must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans, new manager Mikel Arteta said on Monday. In his first news conference last week, Arteta had demanded "passion and energy" from the players and the Spaniard said he was satisfied with what he saw during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Everton. Arteta, 37, will make his managerial debut when 11th-placed Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Thursday. "I think that we have a really good team with a lot to improve," Arteta told reporters. "I need them all on board. All the meetings we've had is to get everyone on board and so far I'm very happy with the reaction." "What we are going to transmit to the team is accountability to play for this football club. This is the basic... We are much more committed. The body language (in the Everton draw) was much better and they had much more passion, that is non-negotiable." Arteta confirmed interim boss Freddie Ljungberg, who took charge for six games following Unai Emery's sacking, will stay on as a member of the coaching staff. "I spoke to him after the game," Arteta added. "I told him who I want to bring in and I wanted to know what he was feeling. We decided the best thing would be for him to carry on with us. "I knew him a little and we will start a new chapter and he was very positive." Arteta also said midfielder Mesut Ozil was a part of his plans despite Ljungberg's unhappiness over the German's conduct during Arsenal's 3-0 defeat by Manchester City earlier this month. Ozil kicked his gloves in frustration after being withdrawn in the 59th minute and Ljungberg said his unacceptable conduct would have prevented him from being selected at Everton had he been fit for the match. "It's a question for Freddie," Arteta said. "I just wanted him to pick the best possible lineup for the game. You're not going to be judged on what you done in the past, positive or negative. "We will try to put the most competitive team out, we are to be ready and nullify them as much as possible."

New Arsenal boss Arteta demands accountability from players

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Liverpool</a>, newly crowned Club World Cup winners, return to their main task - fighting for their first league title in 30 years -&nbsp;when they face their closest challengers Leicester City on Thursday.

The Boxing Day clash of the top-two, at Leicester's King Power stadium, headlines a full programme of festive fixtures and despite Leicester's 3-1 reverse at Manchester City on Saturday, Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp is aware of the dangers that his side face.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-leicester-break-club-record-with-4-1-win-at-villa-267125">Leicester</a> manager Brendan Rodgers, who was replaced by Klopp at Anfield, has built a team that has won as many games as Pep Guardiola's City, 12 out of 18. They have lost just three times and in Jamie Vardy, they have the league's top scorer with 17 goals.

"We will try (to stop Vardy). He's a massive striker, an exceptional striker. One of the top three since I've been in England," said Klopp.

"He's difficult to defend, always on the shoulder... playing the offside line, really dangerous. The only thing you can do is avoid the passes to him and that's what we'll try.

"But Leicester is not only Jamie Vardy. Brendan has done an excellent job there and they're a proper top-class team. The quality they have is exceptional," added the German.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-manager-klopp-extends-contract-to-2024-268150">Klopp</a> will need to draw on his strength in depth given that midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain suffered an ankle injury in the extra-time win over Flamengo in the Club World Cup final in Qatar.

With Dejan Lovren, Joel Matip and Brazilian Fabinho all sidelined, Joe Gomez is likely to partner Virgil van Dijk in the centre of defence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-must-focus-on-rashford-martial-dont-need-haaland-berbatov-269072">Manchester United</a>, smarting from their defeat at Watford on Sunday, are at home to Newcastle United, a game which could see Paul Pogba return to the starting line-up.

The French midfielder, who had been out with an ankle injury since September, came on as a substitute at Watford but could start against Steve Bruce's side.

"He is the best all-round midfielder in the world," said United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who admits that it can be tricky to designate a precise midfield duty for the former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/soccer-football-lazio-beat-juventus-again-to-win-italian-supercup-269651">Juventus</a> player.

"He can perform all roles, but if I play him low, (some people will say] he should have played high and, if I play him high, I should have played low. There’s always going to be that discussion with him. But it’s great to have him back," he said.

Two clubs will have new managers in charge for the first time with Mikel Arteta's Arsenal at struggling Bournemouth and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carlo-ancelotti-everton-will-play-attractive-football-269894">Carlo Ancelotti</a> taking the reigns of Everton at home to Burnley.

Third-placed Manchester City face a tough trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday.

Liverpool, newly crowned Club World Cup winners, return to their main task - fighting for their first league title in 30 years - when they face their closest challengers Leicester City on Thursday.

Liverpool, newly crowned Club World Cup winners, return to their main task - fighting for their first league title in 30 years - when they face their closest challengers Leicester City on Thursday. The Boxing Day clash of the top-two, at Leicester's King Power stadium, headlines a full programme of festive fixtures and despite Leicester's 3-1 reverse at Manchester City on Saturday, Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp is aware of the dangers that his side face. Leicester manager Brendan Rodgers, who was replaced by Klopp at Anfield, has built a team that has won as many games as Pep Guardiola's City, 12 out of 18. They have lost just three times and in Jamie Vardy, they have the league's top scorer with 17 goals. "We will try (to stop Vardy). He's a massive striker, an exceptional striker. One of the top three since I've been in England," said Klopp. "He's difficult to defend, always on the shoulder... playing the offside line, really dangerous. The only thing you can do is avoid the passes to him and that's what we'll try. "But Leicester is not only Jamie Vardy. Brendan has done an excellent job there and they're a proper top-class team. The quality they have is exceptional," added the German. Klopp will need to draw on his strength in depth given that midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain suffered an ankle injury in the extra-time win over Flamengo in the Club World Cup final in Qatar. With Dejan Lovren, Joel Matip and Brazilian Fabinho all sidelined, Joe Gomez is likely to partner Virgil van Dijk in the centre of defence. Manchester United, smarting from their defeat at Watford on Sunday, are at home to Newcastle United, a game which could see Paul Pogba return to the starting line-up. The French midfielder, who had been out with an ankle injury since September, came on as a substitute at Watford but could start against Steve Bruce's side. "He is the best all-round midfielder in the world," said United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who admits that it can be tricky to designate a precise midfield duty for the former Juventus player. "He can perform all roles, but if I play him low, (some people will say] he should have played high and, if I play him high, I should have played low. There’s always going to be that discussion with him. But it’s great to have him back," he said. Two clubs will have new managers in charge for the first time with Mikel Arteta's Arsenal at struggling Bournemouth and Carlo Ancelotti taking the reigns of Everton at home to Burnley. Third-placed Manchester City face a tough trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday.

Football: Liverpool face Vardy threat on festive return to domestic action

Liverpool's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining an ankle ligament injury in Saturday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Club World Cup final</a>, manager Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday.

The midfielder landed awkwardly on his ankle during the 1-0 win over Flamengo and was substituted in the 75th minute. Klopp confirmed the 26-year-old would not play during the busy festive period when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Liverpool</a> play three times in eight days.

"You have three ligaments on the outside of the ankle, one of them is damaged," Klopp told reporters ahead of Thursday's top-of-the-table clash at Leicester City.

"Now we have to see how quickly we can fix that. I don't know exactly. I had that injury myself, but it was years ago and it can take a while or can be quick.

"No chance for Thursday and no chance for this year. Oxlade will not play anymore (in 2019), that's clear."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-manager-klopp-extends-contract-to-2024-268150">Klopp</a> also said midfielder Fabinho and centre backs Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip were recovering well but not fit for the upcoming games.

"There is no news on anyone else, which is good news," Klopp added.

Liverpool played two games in Qatar last week as they lifted their third trophy of the year following their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Champions League</a> and UEFA Super Cup triumphs. But Klopp said fatigue would not be a factor when they prepare for the trip to Leicester.

"The way to Qatar was difficult sleeping-wise but on the way back it was completely normal," Klopp said. "Yesterday we had the day off, and I'm pretty sure the boys slept as much as they could.

&nbsp;

Liverpool's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining an ankle ligament injury in Saturday's Club World Cup final, manager Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday.

Liverpool's Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining an ankle ligament injury in Saturday's Club World Cup final, manager Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday. The midfielder landed awkwardly on his ankle during the 1-0 win over Flamengo and was substituted in the 75th minute. Klopp confirmed the 26-year-old would not play during the busy festive period when Liverpool play three times in eight days. "You have three ligaments on the outside of the ankle, one of them is damaged," Klopp told reporters ahead of Thursday's top-of-the-table clash at Leicester City. "Now we have to see how quickly we can fix that. I don't know exactly. I had that injury myself, but it was years ago and it can take a while or can be quick. "No chance for Thursday and no chance for this year. Oxlade will not play anymore (in 2019), that's clear." Klopp also said midfielder Fabinho and centre backs Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip were recovering well but not fit for the upcoming games. "There is no news on anyone else, which is good news," Klopp added. Liverpool played two games in Qatar last week as they lifted their third trophy of the year following their Champions League and UEFA Super Cup triumphs. But Klopp said fatigue would not be a factor when they prepare for the trip to Leicester. "The way to Qatar was difficult sleeping-wise but on the way back it was completely normal," Klopp said. "Yesterday we had the day off, and I'm pretty sure the boys slept as much as they could.

Football: Liverpool's Oxlade-Chamberlain sidelined with ankle injury

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-gives-fifa-commitment-on-womens-access-to-matches-report-269399">FIFA</a> has&nbsp;banned Bahrain defender Sayed&nbsp;Baqer&nbsp;for&nbsp;10&nbsp;matches for 'discriminatory behaviour' in a World Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, soccer's world governing body has said.

Baqer, 25, was captured on video making a slant-eyed&nbsp;gesture&nbsp;in the direction of Hong Kong supporters after a goalless draw in the city on November&nbsp;14.

FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against&nbsp;Baqer&nbsp;last month and announced that the player had also been fined 30,000 Swiss francs ($30,549.90) and warned over his conduct.

The suspension follows the governing body's July announcement that it had doubled the minimum&nbsp;ban&nbsp;for&nbsp;racist&nbsp;behaviour to&nbsp;10&nbsp;games.

A number of high-profile&nbsp;racist&nbsp;incidents have marred the&nbsp;game&nbsp;this season.

The most recent involved the arrest of a Chelsea fan for allegedly racially abusing Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean forward <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mourinho-confirms-tottenham-appeal-against-wrong-red-for-son-269877">Son Heung-min</a> in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Premier League</a> match in London on Sunday.

Chelsea defender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Yes%C2%A0Bank">Antonio Rudiger</a> also alleged he was racially abused in the same&nbsp;game, prompting the Professional Footballers' Association to call for a government inquiry into the proliferation of&nbsp;racist&nbsp;incidents in English soccer.

Italy has also been front and centre this season with Inter Milan's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/were-going-backwards-says-romelu-lukaku-after-racist-abuse-at-cagliari-247197">Romelu Lukaku</a> and Brescia's Mario Balotelli being targeted by rival fans during Serie A matches.

In a separate ruling, FIFA ordered Indonesia to play one match behind closed doors without fans and fined the country's soccer association 200,000 Swiss francs over security failings during a World Cup qualifier with Malaysia last month.

Malaysia were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for the behaviour of their fans.

Sierra Leone have also been told to play one&nbsp;game&nbsp;behind closed doors and were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for a lack of order during a qualifier against Liberia in September.

FIFA has banned Bahrain defender Sayed Baqer for 10 matches for 'discriminatory behaviour' in a World Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, soccer's world governing body has said.

FIFA has banned Bahrain defender Sayed Baqer for 10 matches for 'discriminatory behaviour' in a World Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, soccer's world governing body has said. Baqer, 25, was captured on video making a slant-eyed gesture in the direction of Hong Kong supporters after a goalless draw in the city on November 14. FIFA opened disciplinary proceedings against Baqer last month and announced that the player had also been fined 30,000 Swiss francs ($30,549.90) and warned over his conduct. The suspension follows the governing body's July announcement that it had doubled the minimum ban for racist behaviour to 10 games. A number of high-profile racist incidents have marred the game this season. The most recent involved the arrest of a Chelsea fan for allegedly racially abusing Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean forward Son Heung-min in a Premier League match in London on Sunday. Chelsea defender Antonio Rudiger also alleged he was racially abused in the same game, prompting the Professional Footballers' Association to call for a government inquiry into the proliferation of racist incidents in English soccer. Italy has also been front and centre this season with Inter Milan's Romelu Lukaku and Brescia's Mario Balotelli being targeted by rival fans during Serie A matches. In a separate ruling, FIFA ordered Indonesia to play one match behind closed doors without fans and fined the country's soccer association 200,000 Swiss francs over security failings during a World Cup qualifier with Malaysia last month. Malaysia were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for the behaviour of their fans. Sierra Leone have also been told to play one game behind closed doors and were fined 50,000 Swiss francs for a lack of order during a qualifier against Liberia in September.

Football: Bahrain's Baqer gets 10-game ban for racist gesture

Lazio&nbsp;beat&nbsp;Juventus&nbsp;3-1, their second&nbsp;win&nbsp;over the Turin giants in little more than two weeks, to&nbsp;win&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/football-lazio-beat-juventus-3-2-in-dramatic-italian-super-cup-18950">Italian&nbsp;Super Cup</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, the annual meeting between the Coppa Italia&nbsp;winners and Serie A champions.

Second-half goals from Senad Lulic and Danilo Cataldi won the match which was being played in Saudi Arabia for the second year running.

Lazio&nbsp;also&nbsp;beat&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juventus-inter-milan-return-to-serie-a-duel-as-napoli-try-to-snap-winless-run-265161">Juventus</a>&nbsp;3-1 in Serie A on Dec. 7, handing their opponents their first defeat under coach Maurizio Sarri.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/flying-cristiano-ronaldo-fires-juventus-top-as-buffon-equals-maldinis-serie-a-record-269078">Lazio</a>, the Coppa Italia victors, went ahead after 17 minutes when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-manchester-united-sevilla-and-celtic-into-europa-league-last-32-260697">Sergei Milinkovic Savic</a> laid the ball off for Luis Alberto to fire into the net.

Paulo Dybala levelled for the Serie A champions at the end of the first-half from a rebound after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldo-and-higuain-on-target-as-juventus-beat-leverkusen-2-0-267848">Cristiano Ronaldo's</a> shot was parried by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-roma-knocked-out-of-third-place-with-defeat-at-parma-261301">Thomas Strakosha</a>.

Juventus&nbsp;seemed to be in control in the second half and Ronaldo was close with a shot which went just over but they were caught out when Marco Parolo's cross flew across the face of goal and Lulic volleyed in at the far post in the 73rd minute.

Juventus&nbsp;had midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur sent off in stoppage time and Cataldi curled the resulting free kick into the net with the last action of the game.

The&nbsp;Supercup&nbsp;final is often played abroad and has also been hosted in China, the United States, Libya and Qatar.

Lazio beat Juventus 3-1, their second win over the Turin giants in little more than two weeks, to win the Italian Super Cup on Sunday, the annual meeting between the Coppa Italia winners and Serie A champions.

Lazio beat Juventus 3-1, their second win over the Turin giants in little more than two weeks, to win the Italian Super Cup on Sunday, the annual meeting between the Coppa Italia winners and Serie A champions. Second-half goals from Senad Lulic and Danilo Cataldi won the match which was being played in Saudi Arabia for the second year running. Lazio also beat Juventus 3-1 in Serie A on Dec. 7, handing their opponents their first defeat under coach Maurizio Sarri. Lazio, the Coppa Italia victors, went ahead after 17 minutes when Sergei Milinkovic Savic laid the ball off for Luis Alberto to fire into the net. Paulo Dybala levelled for the Serie A champions at the end of the first-half from a rebound after Cristiano Ronaldo's shot was parried by Thomas Strakosha. Juventus seemed to be in control in the second half and Ronaldo was close with a shot which went just over but they were caught out when Marco Parolo's cross flew across the face of goal and Lulic volleyed in at the far post in the 73rd minute. Juventus had midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur sent off in stoppage time and Cataldi curled the resulting free kick into the net with the last action of the game. The Supercup final is often played abroad and has also been hosted in China, the United States, Libya and Qatar.

Football: Lazio beat Juventus again to win Italian Super Cup

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpool-manager-klopp-extends-contract-to-2024-268150">Jurgen Klopp</a> is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-geroginio-wijnaldum-to-miss-club-world-cup-semi-final-268882">Club World Cup</a> final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday.

Firmino came off the bench to turn in a cross from fellow substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 91st minute at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha after Naby Keita's early opener for a weakened Liverpool side had swiftly been cancelled out by Argentine striker Rogelio Funes Mori.

Having taken time out from their seemingly relentless march towards the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-stage-comeback-to-sink-west-ham-and-end-winless-run-267402">Premier League</a> title to travel to Qatar, Liverpool will be relieved at coming through this test, and they remain on course to win this competition for the first time.

However, they must now beat a Flamengo side who have won the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian title in the last month under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, and who will have had an extra day to prepare for the final after defeating Saudi club Al-Hilal 3-1 on Tuesday.

"Tough game, really tough game," said Klopp when asked about the prospect of facing Flamengo in what will be a repeat of the 1981 Intercontinental Cup final, when a Brazilian team captained by Zico beat Bob Paisley's European Cup holders 3-0 in Tokyo.

"Flamengo's season is over, they are here with a full squad, but we just have to recover as quickly as possible and then make ourselves ready."

He will hope to have Virgil van Dijk back fit for the final after the inspirational Dutch centre-back sat out the Monterrey game due to illness, leaving skipper Jordan Henderson to partner Joe Gomez in defence.

"It was an easy decision because he couldn't train yesterday - he was on the pitch for a couple of minutes until the media left, and then unfortunately he had to leave as well," Klopp said about Van Dijk, who has played in every Premier League and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-last-16-fixtures-liverpool-to-clash-with-atletico-madrid-city-to-face-real-madrid-268559">Champions League</a> game this season. "We will see how quick he can recover."

'Only possible the hard way'&nbsp;

In addition, Klopp chose to leave Sadio Mane on the bench at kick-off along with Firmino and Alexander-Arnold, instead of handing starts to the likes of Adam Lallana, Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi.

"It was only possible the hard way," said Klopp of the way in which his side won, with Firmino's late goal coming after goalkeeper Alisson made a string of key saves to stop Monterrey from going in front.

"We had problems before the game, we knew we would have some problems in the game, but I really think the boys did exceptionally well."

At such a busy stage in the season, Klopp also admitted his relief when the winning goal went in, saying: "I was actually afraid of extra time to be honest so I was more than happy when Bobby scored that goal."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aston-villa-beat-liverpools-kids-to-reach-league-cup-semis-268863">Liverpool</a> got off to a flying start and were rewarded with the opening goal in the 12th minute.

Salah, spurred on by the backing of adoring fans in an official attendance of over 45,000, produced a stunning pass to release Keita, the midfielder running into the box and lashing a first-time shot past goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero.

However, Monterrey's response was swift, as the CONCACAF Champions League winners drew level within two minutes when Funes Mori -- the brother of former Everton defender Ramiro - converted the rebound after Alisson saved from Jesus Gallardo.

The Mexicans grew in confidence after that, with captain Dorlan Pabon, the Colombian international, testing Alisson before the interval and again from a free-kick after the break.

Alisson also saved well from Funes Mori before Mane, Alexander-Arnold and Firmino all entered the fray in the closing stages.&nbsp;

Clearly determined to avoid a draining extra half-hour, Klopp's game plan paid off as Firmino pounced in the 91st minute.

"The team played really well and gave everything," said Monterrey coach Antonio Mohamed.&nbsp;

"Overall I thought we had the clearest chances and their goalkeeper made four or five big saves. It would have been fairer had the game gone to extra time."&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the Club World Cup final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is looking forward to a "really tough game" in the Club World Cup final against Flamengo after Roberto Firmino's injury-time goal gave the Anfield side a hard-fought 2-1 win over Monterrey of Mexico on Wednesday. Firmino came off the bench to turn in a cross from fellow substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 91st minute at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha after Naby Keita's early opener for a weakened Liverpool side had swiftly been cancelled out by Argentine striker Rogelio Funes Mori. Having taken time out from their seemingly relentless march towards the Premier League title to travel to Qatar, Liverpool will be relieved at coming through this test, and they remain on course to win this competition for the first time. However, they must now beat a Flamengo side who have won the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian title in the last month under Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus, and who will have had an extra day to prepare for the final after defeating Saudi club Al-Hilal 3-1 on Tuesday. "Tough game, really tough game," said Klopp when asked about the prospect of facing Flamengo in what will be a repeat of the 1981 Intercontinental Cup final, when a Brazilian team captained by Zico beat Bob Paisley's European Cup holders 3-0 in Tokyo. "Flamengo's season is over, they are here with a full squad, but we just have to recover as quickly as possible and then make ourselves ready." He will hope to have Virgil van Dijk back fit for the final after the inspirational Dutch centre-back sat out the Monterrey game due to illness, leaving skipper Jordan Henderson to partner Joe Gomez in defence. "It was an easy decision because he couldn't train yesterday - he was on the pitch for a couple of minutes until the media left, and then unfortunately he had to leave as well," Klopp said about Van Dijk, who has played in every Premier League and Champions League game this season. "We will see how quick he can recover." 'Only possible the hard way' In addition, Klopp chose to leave Sadio Mane on the bench at kick-off along with Firmino and Alexander-Arnold, instead of handing starts to the likes of Adam Lallana, Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi. "It was only possible the hard way," said Klopp of the way in which his side won, with Firmino's late goal coming after goalkeeper Alisson made a string of key saves to stop Monterrey from going in front. "We had problems before the game, we knew we would have some problems in the game, but I really think the boys did exceptionally well." At such a busy stage in the season, Klopp also admitted his relief when the winning goal went in, saying: "I was actually afraid of extra time to be honest so I was more than happy when Bobby scored that goal." Liverpool got off to a flying start and were rewarded with the opening goal in the 12th minute. Salah, spurred on by the backing of adoring fans in an official attendance of over 45,000, produced a stunning pass to release Keita, the midfielder running into the box and lashing a first-time shot past goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero. However, Monterrey's response was swift, as the CONCACAF Champions League winners drew level within two minutes when Funes Mori -- the brother of former Everton defender Ramiro - converted the rebound after Alisson saved from Jesus Gallardo. The Mexicans grew in confidence after that, with captain Dorlan Pabon, the Colombian international, testing Alisson before the interval and again from a free-kick after the break. Alisson also saved well from Funes Mori before Mane, Alexander-Arnold and Firmino all entered the fray in the closing stages. Clearly determined to avoid a draining extra half-hour, Klopp's game plan paid off as Firmino pounced in the 91st minute. "The team played really well and gave everything," said Monterrey coach Antonio Mohamed. "Overall I thought we had the clearest chances and their goalkeeper made four or five big saves. It would have been fairer had the game gone to extra time."

Liverpool set sights on Flamengo as Firmino takes Reds into Club World Cup final

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