Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal team-mates may be surprised to learn the video and data analysis their coaches use was devised by scientists who used it to track the behaviour of mice, monkeys and human eye movements.

Ruben Saavedra, the Spanish CEO of Metrica Sports, says it is not a stretch to transfer the use of data to track the behaviour of mice and rats to the task of tracking "movement of players on the pitch".

Saavedra and Argentinian co-founder Bruno Dagnino -- who studied the eye movements of monkeys and humans -- found they shared more than an interest in science when they were studying for their PhDs in the Netherlands.

"We had two things in common: as Barcelona and Argentina fans, Lionel Messi was an easy link, and we were the only people on our courses who loved football," Saavedra told AFP in an interview.

"There are lots of nerds in science who do not have other hobbies and so he and I could talk football, which was nice."

The final part of the puzzle was complete with another Argentinian, Enzo Angilletta, who had a video production company.&nbsp;

Togther they developed a system that integrates data with video analysis, which had been done only manually before. By marrying data and video they created what its developers call a "workflow of football analysts".

"Presenting graphs and raw data was not enough for clubs," said&nbsp;Saavedra.

The process is unusual in that it analyses technical skills and positioning during matches, rather than simply measure distance covered.

Thus, the national teams of Portugal and Paraguay, and clubs as far afield as Melbourne Victory and Santos in Brazil have benefited from the video and data analysis product, with the top clubs paying more 100,000 euros ($122,000) a year.

Thanks to that level of income, Metrica have been able to produce a free plan, Play Basic, a version of the analysis tool which is available to download for free to anybody.&nbsp;

It has already attracted a diverse clientele from academies in Africa to amateur players and coaches from rugby union, cricket and ice hockey.

"A few years ago we had to have cameras in stadia but it has evolved," he said.

"Now we can track any game on any video with our new technology.

"We are working to automate the manual work in acquiring the data so it will be affordable for some clubs, who now can only dream of having it."

Saavedra likes to think of Metrica Sports as a 'mini-Tesla', the electric car company, beginning with a high-end expensive product which can then by used to channel funds into the development and launch of a more affordable one.

"I like saying we follow the kind of model Tesla followed even if they are a huge company compared to Metrica.

"The first clients fund investment and development of technology which benefits them and at same time allows us to develop new technologies to cut costs.

"Making this technology accessible to teams like Stockport County or academies in Vietnam was possible because we partnered with the elite clubs first."

<h2>- 'Click of a button' -</h2>

However, while the price may stay at six figures for the elite clubs and national sides, the amount of time saved on the weary eyes of their respective video analysts is immeasurable.

"It was a very manual process before and this saves them tonnes of time," said Saavedra.

"Previously, a video analyst would sit and pause the match at every instance he wanted recording, that could take four or five hours to watch the whole game.

"With Metrica Sports, they simply click a few buttons and that same work is done in two or three minutes."

Saavedra uses an example of a coach telling two defenders never to be further than a specific distance from play.

"We can write an algorithm that shows every moment when they are further away than they should be as directed by the coach.

"They can see the lines showing distance, red for further, yellow for closer, just at the click of a button."

The process is unusual in that it analyses technical skills and positioning during matches, rather than simply measure distance covered.

Saavedra's enthusiasm reflects his lack of regret at ditching neuroscience despite studying it for 14 years.

"I say football used to be my hobby and neuroscience was my job," he said.

"I flipped that and it is awesome."

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal team-mates may be surprised to learn the video and data analysis their coaches use was devised by scientists who used it to track the behaviour of mice, monkeys and human eye movements.

Cristiano Ronaldo and his Portugal team-mates may be surprised to learn the video and data analysis their coaches use was devised by scientists who used it to track the behaviour of mice, monkeys and human eye movements. Ruben Saavedra, the Spanish CEO of Metrica Sports, says it is not a stretch to transfer the use of data to track the behaviour of mice and rats to the task of tracking "movement of players on the pitch". Saavedra and Argentinian co-founder Bruno Dagnino -- who studied the eye movements of monkeys and humans -- found they shared more than an interest in science when they were studying for their PhDs in the Netherlands. "We had two things in common: as Barcelona and Argentina fans, Lionel Messi was an easy link, and we were the only people on our courses who loved football," Saavedra told AFP in an interview. "There are lots of nerds in science who do not have other hobbies and so he and I could talk football, which was nice." The final part of the puzzle was complete with another Argentinian, Enzo Angilletta, who had a video production company. Togther they developed a system that integrates data with video analysis, which had been done only manually before. By marrying data and video they created what its developers call a "workflow of football analysts". "Presenting graphs and raw data was not enough for clubs," said Saavedra. The process is unusual in that it analyses technical skills and positioning during matches, rather than simply measure distance covered. Thus, the national teams of Portugal and Paraguay, and clubs as far afield as Melbourne Victory and Santos in Brazil have benefited from the video and data analysis product, with the top clubs paying more 100,000 euros ($122,000) a year. Thanks to that level of income, Metrica have been able to produce a free plan, Play Basic, a version of the analysis tool which is available to download for free to anybody. It has already attracted a diverse clientele from academies in Africa to amateur players and coaches from rugby union, cricket and ice hockey. "A few years ago we had to have cameras in stadia but it has evolved," he said. "Now we can track any game on any video with our new technology. "We are working to automate the manual work in acquiring the data so it will be affordable for some clubs, who now can only dream of having it." Saavedra likes to think of Metrica Sports as a 'mini-Tesla', the electric car company, beginning with a high-end expensive product which can then by used to channel funds into the development and launch of a more affordable one. "I like saying we follow the kind of model Tesla followed even if they are a huge company compared to Metrica. "The first clients fund investment and development of technology which benefits them and at same time allows us to develop new technologies to cut costs. "Making this technology accessible to teams like Stockport County or academies in Vietnam was possible because we partnered with the elite clubs first." - 'Click of a button' - However, while the price may stay at six figures for the elite clubs and national sides, the amount of time saved on the weary eyes of their respective video analysts is immeasurable. "It was a very manual process before and this saves them tonnes of time," said Saavedra. "Previously, a video analyst would sit and pause the match at every instance he wanted recording, that could take four or five hours to watch the whole game. "With Metrica Sports, they simply click a few buttons and that same work is done in two or three minutes." Saavedra uses an example of a coach telling two defenders never to be further than a specific distance from play. "We can write an algorithm that shows every moment when they are further away than they should be as directed by the coach. "They can see the lines showing distance, red for further, yellow for closer, just at the click of a button." The process is unusual in that it analyses technical skills and positioning during matches, rather than simply measure distance covered. Saavedra's enthusiasm reflects his lack of regret at ditching neuroscience despite studying it for 14 years. "I say football used to be my hobby and neuroscience was my job," he said. "I flipped that and it is awesome."

Of mice and men: Keeping track of Ronaldo and co

Aston Villa were forced to close their training ground on Thursday after two rounds of testing returned multiple positive cases of coronavirus among players and staff.

"A large number of first team players and staff returned positive tests after being routinely tested on Monday and immediately went into isolation," Villa said in a statement.

"A second round of testing was carried out immediately and produced more positive results today."

The Premier League club's FA Cup third round tie against Liverpool on Friday is now at risk of being postponed.

"First team training ahead of tomorrow’s FA Cup match with Liverpool was cancelled," Villa's statement added.

"Discussions are ongoing between medical representatives of the Club, the Football Association and the Premier League."

Villa are the fourth Premier League club to suffer a Covid-19 outbreak in the last two months with growing concerns over whether the English top-flight can complete the season on schedule.

Three Premier League matches were postponed last week due to outbreaks at Manchester City and Fulham.

On Tuesday, a record high of 40 positive tests were detected among Premier League players and staff in the week between December 28 and January 3.

Southampton's FA Cup trip to Shrewsbury has already been postponed due to a number of positive cases at the League One club.

Wayne Rooney's Derby will fulfil their fixture at Chorley with a youth team after nine positive tests among first-team players and staff.

Aston Villa were forced to close their training ground on Thursday after two rounds of testing returned multiple positive cases of coronavirus among players and staff.

Aston Villa were forced to close their training ground on Thursday after two rounds of testing returned multiple positive cases of coronavirus among players and staff. "A large number of first team players and staff returned positive tests after being routinely tested on Monday and immediately went into isolation," Villa said in a statement. "A second round of testing was carried out immediately and produced more positive results today." The Premier League club's FA Cup third round tie against Liverpool on Friday is now at risk of being postponed. "First team training ahead of tomorrow’s FA Cup match with Liverpool was cancelled," Villa's statement added. "Discussions are ongoing between medical representatives of the Club, the Football Association and the Premier League." Villa are the fourth Premier League club to suffer a Covid-19 outbreak in the last two months with growing concerns over whether the English top-flight can complete the season on schedule. Three Premier League matches were postponed last week due to outbreaks at Manchester City and Fulham. On Tuesday, a record high of 40 positive tests were detected among Premier League players and staff in the week between December 28 and January 3. Southampton's FA Cup trip to Shrewsbury has already been postponed due to a number of positive cases at the League One club. Wayne Rooney's Derby will fulfil their fixture at Chorley with a youth team after nine positive tests among first-team players and staff.

Aston Villa training ground closed due to coronavirus outbreak

Liverpool are unlikely to bolster their injury-hit defence this month due to the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, manager Jurgen Klopp revealed on Thursday.

The English champions are expected to be without Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez for the rest of the season, while Joel Matip is also currently sidelined leaving Klopp without a senior recognised centre-back.

Midfielder Fabinho has deputised in central defence for most the season, while youngsters Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips have had to be drafted in.

Despite the closure of stadiums to fans due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Reds spent a reported £70 million in the summer transfer window on Konstantinos Tsimikas, Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, all of whom have also had spells out due to injury.

"I cannot say definitely we will not do it, it's just not likely because of the situation in the world," said Klopp ahead of his side's trip to Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Friday. "It's not the best situation for the whole planet, so why should it be for a football club."

The German led Liverpool to winning the Champions League in 2018/19 and followed that up with the club's first league title for 30 years in 2020.

However, the financial springboard expected from that success has not materialised with the growing possibility of a full season with supporters through the gates.

"This club, with these owners, will always be very responsible with the things we do," added Klopp.

"If the world would be a normal place, everything would be fine, we won the league, won the Champions League, the club is in the best possible situation, then you have three senior centre-halves all injured - is that a situation where usually we would do something?

"Yes, definitely, but we are not in that situation so I don't know if something will happen or not.

"We have to deal with the situation like we did it so far and we have to get through this."

Liverpool still top the Premier League, but the injury toll has shown in recent weeks as they have failed to win in three league games for the first time since 2018 to see their advantage at the top of the table whittled away.

Manchester United are level on points with Klopp's men and have a game in hand to come at Burnley on Tuesday before the top two face off at Anfield on January 17.

Liverpool are unlikely to bolster their injury-hit defence this month due to the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, manager Jurgen Klopp revealed on Thursday.

Liverpool are unlikely to bolster their injury-hit defence this month due to the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic, manager Jurgen Klopp revealed on Thursday. The English champions are expected to be without Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez for the rest of the season, while Joel Matip is also currently sidelined leaving Klopp without a senior recognised centre-back. Midfielder Fabinho has deputised in central defence for most the season, while youngsters Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips have had to be drafted in. Despite the closure of stadiums to fans due to Covid-19 restrictions, the Reds spent a reported £70 million in the summer transfer window on Konstantinos Tsimikas, Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota, all of whom have also had spells out due to injury. "I cannot say definitely we will not do it, it's just not likely because of the situation in the world," said Klopp ahead of his side's trip to Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Friday. "It's not the best situation for the whole planet, so why should it be for a football club." The German led Liverpool to winning the Champions League in 2018/19 and followed that up with the club's first league title for 30 years in 2020. However, the financial springboard expected from that success has not materialised with the growing possibility of a full season with supporters through the gates. "This club, with these owners, will always be very responsible with the things we do," added Klopp. "If the world would be a normal place, everything would be fine, we won the league, won the Champions League, the club is in the best possible situation, then you have three senior centre-halves all injured - is that a situation where usually we would do something? "Yes, definitely, but we are not in that situation so I don't know if something will happen or not. "We have to deal with the situation like we did it so far and we have to get through this." Liverpool still top the Premier League, but the injury toll has shown in recent weeks as they have failed to win in three league games for the first time since 2018 to see their advantage at the top of the table whittled away. Manchester United are level on points with Klopp's men and have a game in hand to come at Burnley on Tuesday before the top two face off at Anfield on January 17.

Klopp blames Covid crisis for lack of transfer funds at Liverpool

Jose Mourinho urged Tottenham to kick on after Son Heung-min fired them into the League Cup final with the decisive goal in a 2-0 win against Brentford on Tuesday.

Moussa Sissoko put Mourinho's team ahead in the semi-final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

But Tottenham were still searching for the knockout blow against spirited second tier Brentford until Son netted with 20 minutes remaining.

Tottenham will face Manchester United or holders Manchester City, who meet in the second semi-final on Wednesday, at Wembley on April 25.

It will be the club's first domestic final since losing the 2015 League Cup showpiece against Chelsea, and their first final in any competition since the 2019 Champions League defeat against Liverpool in Madrid.

"The final is now in a pocket for three months, we have to wait for the final so we have to focus on what we have coming up," Mourinho said.

"We have the FA Cup, the Premier League, the Europa league, so let's forget the final for now. But when April arrives we have to be ready and to fight for the trophy."

Mourinho, appointed in November 2019, is hoping to lead Tottenham to their first major trophy since the 2008 League Cup.

He has already won the competition four times, landing his first silverware in English football in 2005 with Chelsea, where he won it twice more before a further success at Manchester United in 2017.

Mourinho is the third manager to reach a League Cup final with three different clubs, following Ron Atkinson and Ron Saunders.

"This is a game that takes us to a final. Of course we are very, very happy with this," Mourinho said.

"We didn't play brilliantly, sometimes wrong decisions, sometimes one more touch, not with that soft control that allows you to play fast but the game is always under control against a team that will probably be in the Premier League next year."

The Tottenham boss had labelled Brentford's visit to north London as the biggest game of his reign, so it was no surprise he picked Son and Harry Kane in a team featuring five changes from Saturday's Premier League win over Leeds.

<h2>- Crucial moment -</h2>

Brentford, fourth in the Championship, had already beaten four Premier League clubs in Southampton, Newcastle, Fulham and West Bromwich Albion to reach their first domestic cup semi-final.

But Tottenham needed just 12 minutes to take the lead as Sergio Reguilon's pin-point cross from the left evaded Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock and found Sissoko, who finished his burst into the six-yard box with a powerful header into the top corner.

It was the French midfielder's first goal since December 2019, ending a barren run that had stretched to 36 matches.

Tottenham pressed hard for a second goal and Son's long-range drive forced a good save from David Raya, who had to stretch to tip away Lucas Moura's deflected header just before half-time.

Son flashed a volley just wide from Sissoko's cross, but Tottenham escaped in the 63rd minute when Ivan Toney's equaliser was disallowed by VAR.

When Pinnock's header was clawed away by Hugo Lloris, Toney stabbed in the rebound from close-range, only for the Brentford striker's celebrations to be curtailed when his knee was seen to be in an offside position.

That tight decision proved the crucial moment as Son struck in the 70th minute.

Kane fed Tanguy Ndombele and the midfielder's defence-splitting pass teed up Son, who fired high into the roof of the net for his 16th goal of the season.

Brentford's Josh Dasilva was sent off in the 84th minute for a studs-up foul on Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg that left the furious Tottenham midfielder with blood running down his shin.

Jose Mourinho urged Tottenham to kick on after Son Heung-min fired them into the League Cup final with the decisive goal in a 2-0 win against Brentford on Tuesday.

Jose Mourinho urged Tottenham to kick on after Son Heung-min fired them into the League Cup final with the decisive goal in a 2-0 win against Brentford on Tuesday. Moussa Sissoko put Mourinho's team ahead in the semi-final at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. But Tottenham were still searching for the knockout blow against spirited second tier Brentford until Son netted with 20 minutes remaining. Tottenham will face Manchester United or holders Manchester City, who meet in the second semi-final on Wednesday, at Wembley on April 25. It will be the club's first domestic final since losing the 2015 League Cup showpiece against Chelsea, and their first final in any competition since the 2019 Champions League defeat against Liverpool in Madrid. "The final is now in a pocket for three months, we have to wait for the final so we have to focus on what we have coming up," Mourinho said. "We have the FA Cup, the Premier League, the Europa league, so let's forget the final for now. But when April arrives we have to be ready and to fight for the trophy." Mourinho, appointed in November 2019, is hoping to lead Tottenham to their first major trophy since the 2008 League Cup. He has already won the competition four times, landing his first silverware in English football in 2005 with Chelsea, where he won it twice more before a further success at Manchester United in 2017. Mourinho is the third manager to reach a League Cup final with three different clubs, following Ron Atkinson and Ron Saunders. "This is a game that takes us to a final. Of course we are very, very happy with this," Mourinho said. "We didn't play brilliantly, sometimes wrong decisions, sometimes one more touch, not with that soft control that allows you to play fast but the game is always under control against a team that will probably be in the Premier League next year." The Tottenham boss had labelled Brentford's visit to north London as the biggest game of his reign, so it was no surprise he picked Son and Harry Kane in a team featuring five changes from Saturday's Premier League win over Leeds. - Crucial moment - Brentford, fourth in the Championship, had already beaten four Premier League clubs in Southampton, Newcastle, Fulham and West Bromwich Albion to reach their first domestic cup semi-final. But Tottenham needed just 12 minutes to take the lead as Sergio Reguilon's pin-point cross from the left evaded Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock and found Sissoko, who finished his burst into the six-yard box with a powerful header into the top corner. It was the French midfielder's first goal since December 2019, ending a barren run that had stretched to 36 matches. Tottenham pressed hard for a second goal and Son's long-range drive forced a good save from David Raya, who had to stretch to tip away Lucas Moura's deflected header just before half-time. Son flashed a volley just wide from Sissoko's cross, but Tottenham escaped in the 63rd minute when Ivan Toney's equaliser was disallowed by VAR. When Pinnock's header was clawed away by Hugo Lloris, Toney stabbed in the rebound from close-range, only for the Brentford striker's celebrations to be curtailed when his knee was seen to be in an offside position. That tight decision proved the crucial moment as Son struck in the 70th minute. Kane fed Tanguy Ndombele and the midfielder's defence-splitting pass teed up Son, who fired high into the roof of the net for his 16th goal of the season. Brentford's Josh Dasilva was sent off in the 84th minute for a studs-up foul on Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg that left the furious Tottenham midfielder with blood running down his shin.

Son, Sissoko send Spurs into League Cup final

Former Manchester City and England midfielder Colin Bell has died aged 74 following a short illness, the club announced Tuesday.

Bell scored 152 goals in 492 appearances for City during a 13-year career with the club after joining from Bury.

"Colin passed away peacefully this (Tuesday) afternoon after a short, non-Covid related illness, aged 74," said a club statement.

"He leaves behind wife Marie, children Jon and Dawn and grandchildren, Luke, Mark, Isla and Jack."

Bell was a member of the City side that won the old First Division title in 1967/68 and the FA Cup in 1969.

He also helped City win two trophies in the 1969/70 season -- the English League Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup.

In addition to his City honours, Bell won 48 England caps and was in the squad for the 1970 World Cup in Mexico during a career cut short by a knee injury.

City said "few players have left such an indelible mark" on the club as Bell, nicknamed "The King of the Kippax" after one of the terraces at their former Maine Road home.

Such was the respect in which Bell was held at the club that City fans voted to name a stand at the Etihad Stadium after him in 2004.

City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak told the club's website: "Colin Bell will always be remembered as one of Manchester City's greatest players and the very sad news today of his passing will affect everybody connected to our club.

"I am fortunate to be able to speak regularly to his former manager and team-mates, and it's clear to me that Colin was a player held in the highest regard by all those who had the privilege of playing alongside him or seeing him play.

"The passage of time does little to erase the memories of his genius."

Meanwhile, his former City team-mate Mike Summerbee paid tribute to "a lovely, humble man".

"He was quiet, unassuming and I always believe he never knew how good he actually was," Summerbee told the club's website.

"He was just the greatest footballer we have ever had.

"Kevin De Bruyne reminds me a lot of Colin in the way he plays and the way he is as a person."

Former England international Summerbee added: "He was adored by the City fans and for our supporters to say he is the best they have ever seen, you don't get a better compliment than that, do you?"

Former Manchester City and England midfielder Colin Bell has died aged 74 following a short illness, the club announced Tuesday. Bell scored 152 goals in 492 appearances for City during a 13-year career with the club after joining from Bury.

Former Manchester City and England midfielder Colin Bell has died aged 74 following a short illness, the club announced Tuesday. Bell scored 152 goals in 492 appearances for City during a 13-year career with the club after joining from Bury. "Colin passed away peacefully this (Tuesday) afternoon after a short, non-Covid related illness, aged 74," said a club statement. "He leaves behind wife Marie, children Jon and Dawn and grandchildren, Luke, Mark, Isla and Jack." Bell was a member of the City side that won the old First Division title in 1967/68 and the FA Cup in 1969. He also helped City win two trophies in the 1969/70 season -- the English League Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup. In addition to his City honours, Bell won 48 England caps and was in the squad for the 1970 World Cup in Mexico during a career cut short by a knee injury. City said "few players have left such an indelible mark" on the club as Bell, nicknamed "The King of the Kippax" after one of the terraces at their former Maine Road home. Such was the respect in which Bell was held at the club that City fans voted to name a stand at the Etihad Stadium after him in 2004. City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak told the club's website: "Colin Bell will always be remembered as one of Manchester City's greatest players and the very sad news today of his passing will affect everybody connected to our club. "I am fortunate to be able to speak regularly to his former manager and team-mates, and it's clear to me that Colin was a player held in the highest regard by all those who had the privilege of playing alongside him or seeing him play. "The passage of time does little to erase the memories of his genius." Meanwhile, his former City team-mate Mike Summerbee paid tribute to "a lovely, humble man". "He was quiet, unassuming and I always believe he never knew how good he actually was," Summerbee told the club's website. "He was just the greatest footballer we have ever had. "Kevin De Bruyne reminds me a lot of Colin in the way he plays and the way he is as a person." Former England international Summerbee added: "He was adored by the City fans and for our supporters to say he is the best they have ever seen, you don't get a better compliment than that, do you?"

Manchester City great Bell dies aged 74

The mind game in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> continues in what is turning out to be one of the most tightly fought seasons in the English top-flight in some years. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, after their 1-0 defeat to Southampton on Monday was critical of the referees as he said that Liverpool don't get many penalties like Manchester United.&nbsp;

Now, Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solsjaer has responded to Klopp's comments as he said that such statements could be a way of influencing referees.&nbsp;

Klopp was furious after Liverpool's shock defeat to Southampton as the Reds dropped points in their third consecutive matches. However, he went on to shift the focus to Manchester United as he brought the Red Devils up while talking about penalties and refereeing decisions in the league.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-confirm-3-more-covid-19-cases-354836" hreflang="en">Premier League: Manchester City confirm 3 more COVID-19 cases</a>

“I can’t talk on behalf of other managers, why they say things like this,” Solskjaer said.

“I felt it worked last year in the semi in the FA Cup because Frank [Lampard] spoke about it and we had a nailed-on penalty that we should have had that we didn’t get so maybe it’s a way of influencing referees. I don’t know, but I don’t worry about that. When they foul our players it’s a penalty.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-covid-19-cases-double-in-a-week-with-record-40-new-cases-354670" hreflang="en">Premier League COVID-19 cases double in a week with record 40 new cases</a>

“I don’t know how many penalties they [Liverpool] have had. I don’t count how many penalties they have, so if they want to spend time worrying about when we get fouled in the box, I don’t spend time on that," the Manchester United boss added.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Manchester United will take on rivals Manchester City in the semi-final of the League Cup at the Old Trafford. The winner of the match will lock horns with Tottenham Hotspur in the final at the Wembley.

The mind game in Premier League continues in what is turning out to be one of the most tightly fought seasons in the English top-flight in some years. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, after their 1-0 defeat to Southampton on Monday was critical of the referees as he said that Liverpool don't get many penalties like Manchester United.

The mind game in Premier League continues in what is turning out to be one of the most tightly fought seasons in the English top-flight in some years. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, after their 1-0 defeat to Southampton on Monday was critical of the referees as he said that Liverpool don't get many penalties like Manchester United. Now, Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solsjaer has responded to Klopp's comments as he said that such statements could be a way of influencing referees. Klopp was furious after Liverpool's shock defeat to Southampton as the Reds dropped points in their third consecutive matches. However, he went on to shift the focus to Manchester United as he brought the Red Devils up while talking about penalties and refereeing decisions in the league. ALSO READ: Premier League: Manchester City confirm 3 more COVID-19 cases “I can’t talk on behalf of other managers, why they say things like this,” Solskjaer said. “I felt it worked last year in the semi in the FA Cup because Frank [Lampard] spoke about it and we had a nailed-on penalty that we should have had that we didn’t get so maybe it’s a way of influencing referees. I don’t know, but I don’t worry about that. When they foul our players it’s a penalty. ALSO READ: Premier League COVID-19 cases double in a week with record 40 new cases “I don’t know how many penalties they [Liverpool] have had. I don’t count how many penalties they have, so if they want to spend time worrying about when we get fouled in the box, I don’t spend time on that," the Manchester United boss added. Meanwhile, Manchester United will take on rivals Manchester City in the semi-final of the League Cup at the Old Trafford. The winner of the match will lock horns with Tottenham Hotspur in the final at the Wembley.

Maybe it’s a way of influencing referees: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer on Jurgen Klopp's penalty complaint

Manchester City on Wednesday confirmed that three more members of the club have tested positive for COVID-19 as the dreaded virus continues to wreak havoc in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a>. Scott Carson, Cole Palmer and one member of staff were tested positive for coronavirus and will now undergo a period of self-isolation in accordance with the Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine.

This takes the total tally of COVID-19 positive cases at Man City after as many as five players were unavailable to play in their Premier League match against Chelsea. Earlier, the likes of Kyle Walker, Ederson and Gabriel Jesus were found positive for the virus and missed the clash against Chelsea.

Man City had their training ground shut, albeit temporarily for a couple of days, after players and staff were found positive for the virus. However, after another round of testing other players were tested negative and were allowed to train at their training centre.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-great-bell-dies-aged-74-354765" hreflang="en">Manchester City great Bell dies aged 74</a>

With Ederson and Scott Carson out with COVID-19, Man City have only one goalkeeper fit for their next set of matches - with the latest being the League Cup semi-final against Manchester United. Goalkeeper Zak Steffen is set to continue the goalkeeping duties till Ederson is allowed to train.

Earlier on Tuesday, the Premier League confirmed 40 new COVID-19 cases after the latest round of testing - a record since the process began after Project Restart.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-covid-19-cases-double-in-a-week-with-record-40-new-cases-354670" hreflang="en">Premier League COVID-19 cases double in a week with record 40 new cases</a>

<h2>Manchester City's statement:</h2>

Manchester City FC can confirm that Scott Carson, Cole Palmer and one member of staff have tested positive for COVID-19.

Both personnel will now observe a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine.

Everyone at the Club wishes Scott, Cole and all of our other colleagues a speedy recovery ahead of their return to work, training and competition. 
&nbsp;

Manchester City on Wednesday confirmed that three more members of the club have tested positive for COVID-19 as the dreaded virus continues to wreak havoc in the Premier League.

Manchester City on Wednesday confirmed that three more members of the club have tested positive for COVID-19 as the dreaded virus continues to wreak havoc in the Premier League. Scott Carson, Cole Palmer and one member of staff were tested positive for coronavirus and will now undergo a period of self-isolation in accordance with the Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine. This takes the total tally of COVID-19 positive cases at Man City after as many as five players were unavailable to play in their Premier League match against Chelsea. Earlier, the likes of Kyle Walker, Ederson and Gabriel Jesus were found positive for the virus and missed the clash against Chelsea. Man City had their training ground shut, albeit temporarily for a couple of days, after players and staff were found positive for the virus. However, after another round of testing other players were tested negative and were allowed to train at their training centre. ALSO READ: Manchester City great Bell dies aged 74 With Ederson and Scott Carson out with COVID-19, Man City have only one goalkeeper fit for their next set of matches - with the latest being the League Cup semi-final against Manchester United. Goalkeeper Zak Steffen is set to continue the goalkeeping duties till Ederson is allowed to train. Earlier on Tuesday, the Premier League confirmed 40 new COVID-19 cases after the latest round of testing - a record since the process began after Project Restart. ALSO READ: Premier League COVID-19 cases double in a week with record 40 new cases Manchester City's statement: Manchester City FC can confirm that Scott Carson, Cole Palmer and one member of staff have tested positive for COVID-19. Both personnel will now observe a period of self-isolation in accordance with Premier League and UK Government protocol on quarantine. Everyone at the Club wishes Scott, Cole and all of our other colleagues a speedy recovery ahead of their return to work, training and competition.

Premier League: Manchester City confirm 3 more COVID-19 cases

Premier League football and other forms of elite professional sport in England will be allowed to continue despite new national lockdown restrictions announced by the British government on Monday.

Nearly 56 million people in England will return to a full coronavirus lockdown, possibly until mid-February, to try to cut spiralling infection rates, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a televised address.&nbsp;

The measures, which include the closure of primary and secondary schools, will come into effect Wednesday, he said after Scotland announced similar measures to come into force from midnight (0000 GMT) on Tuesday.

But a list of exemptions published by the UK government allowed "elite sportspeople (and their coaches if necessary, or parents/guardians if they are under 18) -- or those on an official elite sports pathway -- to compete and train".

One key point in determining whether a sporting competition can go ahead will be if it has, as the Premier League does, a testing regime and the provision of bio-secure bubbles in place.&nbsp;

Matches, however, will continue to be played behind closed doors.

Prior to Johnson's announcement, England Netball announced their home series with Jamaica, scheduled for late January, had been postponed because of international travel restrictions between Britain and the Caribbean island imposed as a result of the pandemic.&nbsp;

A lockdown similar to the one introduced in England in March last year as a result of a rising number of Covid-19 cases means outdoor gyms, golf courses and tennis courts will close, with amateur outdoor team sports prohibited.

Johnson's announcement followed a statement earlier on Monday by Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister of Scotland, that will see professional sport continuing in Scotland despite rising numbers of Covid-19 cases.

Scottish football and rugby clubs are on a Scottish government exemption list that states "those involved in professional sports, for training, coaching or competing in an event" are among the groups those allowed to leave their homes.

Scotland's new lockdown will last for at least the rest of January.&nbsp;

Sturgeon, the leader of the pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP), said a new faster spreading variant of coronavirus, first identified in the UK in December had been a "massive blow" in the battle against the virus.

<h2>- Celtic row -</h2>

Sturgeon's announcement came as Britain began rolling out a new Covid-19 vaccine developed by the drug manufacturer AstraZeneca and Oxford University.

Meanwhile reigning Scottish football champions Celtic defended their controversial warm-weather training trip to Dubai by saying it had government approval.

The Hoops flew to the Middle East on Saturday following a derby defeat by Rangers that left them a huge 19 points adrift of their arch Glasgow rivals in the race for the Scottish Premiership title.

The Scottish government responded by calling for a Scottish Football Association investigation into whether Celtic had breached coronavirus exemptions. &nbsp;

But, in a series of tweets issued Monday, Celtic defended their position by saying: "If the club had not received Scottish Government approval then we would not have travelled."

Premier League football and other forms of elite professional sport in England will be allowed to continue despite new national lockdown restrictions announced by the British government on Monday.

Premier League football and other forms of elite professional sport in England will be allowed to continue despite new national lockdown restrictions announced by the British government on Monday. Nearly 56 million people in England will return to a full coronavirus lockdown, possibly until mid-February, to try to cut spiralling infection rates, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said in a televised address. The measures, which include the closure of primary and secondary schools, will come into effect Wednesday, he said after Scotland announced similar measures to come into force from midnight (0000 GMT) on Tuesday. But a list of exemptions published by the UK government allowed "elite sportspeople (and their coaches if necessary, or parents/guardians if they are under 18) -- or those on an official elite sports pathway -- to compete and train". One key point in determining whether a sporting competition can go ahead will be if it has, as the Premier League does, a testing regime and the provision of bio-secure bubbles in place. Matches, however, will continue to be played behind closed doors. Prior to Johnson's announcement, England Netball announced their home series with Jamaica, scheduled for late January, had been postponed because of international travel restrictions between Britain and the Caribbean island imposed as a result of the pandemic. A lockdown similar to the one introduced in England in March last year as a result of a rising number of Covid-19 cases means outdoor gyms, golf courses and tennis courts will close, with amateur outdoor team sports prohibited. Johnson's announcement followed a statement earlier on Monday by Nicola Sturgeon, the First Minister of Scotland, that will see professional sport continuing in Scotland despite rising numbers of Covid-19 cases. Scottish football and rugby clubs are on a Scottish government exemption list that states "those involved in professional sports, for training, coaching or competing in an event" are among the groups those allowed to leave their homes. Scotland's new lockdown will last for at least the rest of January. Sturgeon, the leader of the pro-independence Scottish National Party (SNP), said a new faster spreading variant of coronavirus, first identified in the UK in December had been a "massive blow" in the battle against the virus. - Celtic row - Sturgeon's announcement came as Britain began rolling out a new Covid-19 vaccine developed by the drug manufacturer AstraZeneca and Oxford University. Meanwhile reigning Scottish football champions Celtic defended their controversial warm-weather training trip to Dubai by saying it had government approval. The Hoops flew to the Middle East on Saturday following a derby defeat by Rangers that left them a huge 19 points adrift of their arch Glasgow rivals in the race for the Scottish Premiership title. The Scottish government responded by calling for a Scottish Football Association investigation into whether Celtic had breached coronavirus exemptions. But, in a series of tweets issued Monday, Celtic defended their position by saying: "If the club had not received Scottish Government approval then we would not have travelled."

Premier League to continue during new English lockdown

Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool are suffering a "rusty moment" after a 1-0 defeat at Southampton extended the defending champions' winless run in the Premier League to three games.

Danny Ings's stunning second-minute goal earned three points which moved Southampton into sixth and led to Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl breaking into tears of joy on the final whistle.

Liverpool remain top of the table on goal difference over Manchester United, but have now played a game more than the Red Devils, who they face in their next league game at Anfield on January 17.

"That's a rusty moment we have to admit it," said Klopp, whose side last failed to win in three straight Premier League games back in May 2018.

"Only if you know the problem can you solve the problem, we are not blind. We have to fight and play through this."

A first league defeat in three months may hasten Liverpool's search for a centre-back in the January transfer window.

Without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, Klopp started two of his first-choice midfielders from their title-winning campaign, Fabinho and Jordan Henderson, together at the heart of his defence.

Southampton had not scored in their last three games to temper their hopes of a push for European football, but took just two minutes to break the deadlock in style through former Liverpool striker Ings.

Trent Alexander-Arnold did not deal with James Ward-Prowse's angled free-kick into the box and Ings perfectly hooked his shot over Alisson Becker into the far corner.

"It's not only the slow start, but the slow start made life massively difficult tonight," added Klopp.

Southampton had key absentees themselves with goalkeeper Alex McCarthy missing due to a positive test for coronavirus, while Oriol Romeu, Jannik Vestergaard and Che Adams were out injured.

Fraser Forster was making his first Saints appearance since May 2019, but the former England international was rarely tested to earn his clean sheet.

<h2>'Perfect gameplan'</h2>

The visitors could easily have found themselves 2-0 down before the break when Southampton substitute Nathan Tella was inches away from his first senior goal.

If Klopp's men were too passive in the first-half, they started the second-half with the intensity they have made their trademark in recent seasons as Southampton were pinned inside their own half.

Sadio Mane was the visitors' biggest threat on his return to St Mary's as Jack Stephens made a last-ditch challenge to block his route to goal before Kyle Walker-Peters was lucky to escape without conceding a penalty for obstructing another burst from the Senegalese into the box.

Thiago Alcantara was making just his second Liverpool start since a much-anticipated move from Bayern Munich, but even the Spaniard's range of passing could not cut through Southampton's determined defence.

"I started believing we can do it in the 92nd minute, not earlier," said Hasenhuttl. "They are so strong in front you always believe something can happen.

"We had to have a perfect gameplan today and luck. Without luck against such a team you cannot win."

Mane had Liverpool's only shot on target 15 minutes from time when his tame effort was easily held by Forster low to his left.

Southampton could have sealed a huge win moments later when Alisson was caught well off his line by Yan Valery, whose shot lacked the power to beat Henderson in a race to the goal line.

Liverpool so often dug themselves out of problems with late goals in romping to the title last season, but have failed to do so over the festive period, also dropping points against struggling West Brom and Newcastle.

United and Manchester City now hold the upper hand in the title race as they can both move ahead of Liverpool should they win their games in hand.

Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool are suffering a "rusty moment" after a 1-0 defeat at Southampton extended the defending champions' winless run in the Premier League to three games.

Jurgen Klopp admitted Liverpool are suffering a "rusty moment" after a 1-0 defeat at Southampton extended the defending champions' winless run in the Premier League to three games. Danny Ings's stunning second-minute goal earned three points which moved Southampton into sixth and led to Saints manager Ralph Hasenhuttl breaking into tears of joy on the final whistle. Liverpool remain top of the table on goal difference over Manchester United, but have now played a game more than the Red Devils, who they face in their next league game at Anfield on January 17. "That's a rusty moment we have to admit it," said Klopp, whose side last failed to win in three straight Premier League games back in May 2018. "Only if you know the problem can you solve the problem, we are not blind. We have to fight and play through this." A first league defeat in three months may hasten Liverpool's search for a centre-back in the January transfer window. Without the injured Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, Klopp started two of his first-choice midfielders from their title-winning campaign, Fabinho and Jordan Henderson, together at the heart of his defence. Southampton had not scored in their last three games to temper their hopes of a push for European football, but took just two minutes to break the deadlock in style through former Liverpool striker Ings. Trent Alexander-Arnold did not deal with James Ward-Prowse's angled free-kick into the box and Ings perfectly hooked his shot over Alisson Becker into the far corner. "It's not only the slow start, but the slow start made life massively difficult tonight," added Klopp. Southampton had key absentees themselves with goalkeeper Alex McCarthy missing due to a positive test for coronavirus, while Oriol Romeu, Jannik Vestergaard and Che Adams were out injured. Fraser Forster was making his first Saints appearance since May 2019, but the former England international was rarely tested to earn his clean sheet. 'Perfect gameplan' The visitors could easily have found themselves 2-0 down before the break when Southampton substitute Nathan Tella was inches away from his first senior goal. If Klopp's men were too passive in the first-half, they started the second-half with the intensity they have made their trademark in recent seasons as Southampton were pinned inside their own half. Sadio Mane was the visitors' biggest threat on his return to St Mary's as Jack Stephens made a last-ditch challenge to block his route to goal before Kyle Walker-Peters was lucky to escape without conceding a penalty for obstructing another burst from the Senegalese into the box. Thiago Alcantara was making just his second Liverpool start since a much-anticipated move from Bayern Munich, but even the Spaniard's range of passing could not cut through Southampton's determined defence. "I started believing we can do it in the 92nd minute, not earlier," said Hasenhuttl. "They are so strong in front you always believe something can happen. "We had to have a perfect gameplan today and luck. Without luck against such a team you cannot win." Mane had Liverpool's only shot on target 15 minutes from time when his tame effort was easily held by Forster low to his left. Southampton could have sealed a huge win moments later when Alisson was caught well off his line by Yan Valery, whose shot lacked the power to beat Henderson in a race to the goal line. Liverpool so often dug themselves out of problems with late goals in romping to the title last season, but have failed to do so over the festive period, also dropping points against struggling West Brom and Newcastle. United and Manchester City now hold the upper hand in the title race as they can both move ahead of Liverpool should they win their games in hand.

'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> on Tuesday confirmed as many as 40 new COVID-19 cases among players and staff as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc in the United Kingdom. The Premier League tested players and staff twice per week between December 28 and December 31 - out of which 28 new positive cases were found. A total of 12 new cases were found between January 1 and January 3 as England's top-flight continues with its rigorous testing policy.

As many as 1311 players and club staff were tested in the last three days of December 2019 and another 984 players were tested between January 1 and January 3, out of which 40 players and staff were confirmed positive for the virus.

Furthermore, three fixtures have already been affected due to outbreak of coronavirus in some clubs. However, the Premier League continues to trusts its testing policy and is set to be continued, after solid backing by the UK government.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-southampton-boss-ralph-hasenhuttl-cries-tears-of-joy-as-saints-defeat-liverpool-354575" hreflang="en">Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool</a>

<h2>Premier League statement on COVID-19 tests:&nbsp;</h2>

The Premier League is now testing players and club staff twice per week and can today confirm that between Monday 28 December and Thursday 31 December, 1,311 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19.

Of these, there were 28 new positive tests.

Between Friday 1 January and Sunday 3 January, 984 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19 and of these, there were 12 new positives.

During this time period, three fixtures were postponed following an increased number of positive tests at two clubs. These matches will be rearranged as soon as possible.

With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the League continues to have confidence in its COVID-19 protocols, fully backed by the Government, to enable fixtures to be played as scheduled.

Players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days.

The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency.

No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rusty-liverpool-stumble-again-in-southampton-defeat-354547" hreflang="en">'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat</a>

<h2>Premier League COVID-19 results:&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Round 1: Aug 31-Sep 6 - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 2: Sep 7-13 - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 3: Sep 14-20- 1,574 tested, with three testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 4: Sep 21-27 - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 5: Sep 28-Oct 4 - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 6: Oct 5-11 - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 7: Oct 12-18 - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 8: Oct 19-25 - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 9: Oct 26-Nov 1 - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 10: Nov 2-8 - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 11: Nov 9-15 - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 12: Nov 16-22 - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 13: Nov 23-29 - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 14: Nov 30-Dec 6 - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 15: Dec 7-13 - 1,549 tested, with six testing positive.</li>
	<li>Round 16: Dec 14-20 - 1,569 tested, with seven testing positive&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Round 17: Dec 21-27 - 1,479 tested, with 18 testing positive&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Round 18: Dec 28-Jan 3 - 2,295 tested, with 40 testing positive&nbsp; 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Premier League on Tuesday confirmed as many as 40 new COVID-19 cases among players and staff as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc in the United Kingdom. The Premier League tested players and staff twice per week between December 28 and December 31 - out of which 28 new positive cases were found.

Premier League on Tuesday confirmed as many as 40 new COVID-19 cases among players and staff as the coronavirus continues to wreak havoc in the United Kingdom. The Premier League tested players and staff twice per week between December 28 and December 31 - out of which 28 new positive cases were found. A total of 12 new cases were found between January 1 and January 3 as England's top-flight continues with its rigorous testing policy. As many as 1311 players and club staff were tested in the last three days of December 2019 and another 984 players were tested between January 1 and January 3, out of which 40 players and staff were confirmed positive for the virus. Furthermore, three fixtures have already been affected due to outbreak of coronavirus in some clubs. However, the Premier League continues to trusts its testing policy and is set to be continued, after solid backing by the UK government. ALSO READ: Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool Premier League statement on COVID-19 tests: The Premier League is now testing players and club staff twice per week and can today confirm that between Monday 28 December and Thursday 31 December, 1,311 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19. Of these, there were 28 new positive tests. Between Friday 1 January and Sunday 3 January, 984 players and club staff were tested for COVID-19 and of these, there were 12 new positives. During this time period, three fixtures were postponed following an increased number of positive tests at two clubs. These matches will be rearranged as soon as possible. With low numbers of positive tests across the overwhelming majority of clubs, the League continues to have confidence in its COVID-19 protocols, fully backed by the Government, to enable fixtures to be played as scheduled. Players or club staff who have tested positive will self-isolate for a period of 10 days. The Premier League is providing this aggregated information for the purposes of competition integrity and transparency. No specific details as to clubs or individuals will be provided by the League and results will be made public after each round of testing. ALSO READ: 'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat Premier League COVID-19 results: Round 1: Aug 31-Sep 6 - 1,605 tested, with three testing positive. Round 2: Sep 7-13 - 2,131 tested, with four testing positive. Round 3: Sep 14-20- 1,574 tested, with three testing positive. Round 4: Sep 21-27 - 1,595 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 5: Sep 28-Oct 4 - 1,587 tested, with nine testing positive. Round 6: Oct 5-11 - 1,128 tested, with five testing positive. Round 7: Oct 12-18 - 1,575 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 8: Oct 19-25 - 1,609 tested, with two testing positive. Round 9: Oct 26-Nov 1 - 1,446 tested, with four testing positive. Round 10: Nov 2-8 - 1,646 tested, with four testing positive. Round 11: Nov 9-15 - 1,207 tested, with 16 testing positive. Round 12: Nov 16-22 - 1,530 tested, with eight testing positive. Round 13: Nov 23-29 - 1,381 tested, with 10 testing positive. Round 14: Nov 30-Dec 6 - 1,483 tested, with 14 testing positive. Round 15: Dec 7-13 - 1,549 tested, with six testing positive. Round 16: Dec 14-20 - 1,569 tested, with seven testing positive Round 17: Dec 21-27 - 1,479 tested, with 18 testing positive Round 18: Dec 28-Jan 3 - 2,295 tested, with 40 testing positive

Premier League COVID-19 cases double in a week with record 40 new cases

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract.&nbsp;

Paris Saint-Germain, who recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, is looking to sign the Spanish international with reports stating that PSG are eyeing a scoop by signing Ramos along with Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi - both on free transfers.

After letting go&nbsp;Thiago Silva, PSG are in need of an experienced defender and Ramos would fit the bill perfectly. However, the biggest surprise is that Ramos, during contract negotiations with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, said that PSG are trying to sign him with Messi.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-southampton-boss-ralph-hasenhuttl-cries-tears-of-joy-as-saints-defeat-liverpool-354575" hreflang="en">Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool</a>

Spanish publication El Chiringuito TV reported that Ramos has told Real Madrid president Florentino Perez: "At PSG they have told me that they will make a team with me and with Messi."

Messi is also available on a free transfer in summer and the Argentine has already said he will think about his future after the season ends.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-to-continue-during-new-english-lockdown-354549" hreflang="en">Premier League to continue during new English lockdown</a>

Both Messi and Ramos, despite being free transfers, will demand monumental wages - which could be a worry for the French giants with COVID-19 pandemic inflicting major financial damages to every club in the world.

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract.

Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos is free to negotiate with other clubs after stalling contract talks with the Los Merengues. Ramos, who is out of contract in summer, can negotiate terms and contracts with other clubs and leave the Spanish giants for free after the expiry of his contract. Paris Saint-Germain, who recently appointed Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, is looking to sign the Spanish international with reports stating that PSG are eyeing a scoop by signing Ramos along with Barcelona megastar Lionel Messi - both on free transfers. After letting go Thiago Silva, PSG are in need of an experienced defender and Ramos would fit the bill perfectly. However, the biggest surprise is that Ramos, during contract negotiations with Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, said that PSG are trying to sign him with Messi. ALSO READ: Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool Spanish publication El Chiringuito TV reported that Ramos has told Real Madrid president Florentino Perez: "At PSG they have told me that they will make a team with me and with Messi." Messi is also available on a free transfer in summer and the Argentine has already said he will think about his future after the season ends. ALSO READ: Premier League to continue during new English lockdown Both Messi and Ramos, despite being free transfers, will demand monumental wages - which could be a worry for the French giants with COVID-19 pandemic inflicting major financial damages to every club in the world.

Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos to join PSG? Real Madrid star makes stunning revelation

The UAE Warriors 15 event, organised in partnership with Khabib Nurmagomedov, is set to take place on January 15 at the Jiu-jitsu Arena in Abu Dhabi. The much-awaited event, featuring Nurmagomedov, will be open to fans who have already taken the COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;

A joint venture with Nurmagomedov's Eagle Fighting Championship, the UAE Warriors 15 will commemorate Khabib's father and longtime coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who died in July 2019.

Reportedly, UAE Warriors 15 is set to be the first major sporting event in Abu Dhabi to welcome spectators since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Palms Sports, working on UAE Warriors, said that they are working closely with the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) to ensure the safe staging of the event.

"The joint EAGLE FC and UAE WARRIORS tournament, which will take place in Dubai on January 15, will be open to the public. The fighting promotion administration has reached a mutual agreement on spectators' admission upon proof of a special document indicating the vaccination against COVID-19, received in Dubai. We remind you that the tournament will be held at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena on January 15. If you received the COVID-19 vaccination now, you are clear to watch EFC &amp; UAE tournament!"

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-southampton-boss-ralph-hasenhuttl-cries-tears-of-joy-as-saints-defeat-liverpool-354575" hreflang="en">Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJjGdNtF_eg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJjGdNtF_eg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJjGdNtF_eg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJjGdNtF_eg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by EAGLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (@eaglefcmma)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“That’s the beauty of this,” said Fouad Darwish, general manager of Palms Sports. “It’s going to be a very special event. As always, UAE Warriors and Palms Sports like to be pioneers in everything that we do.

“It’s going to be the very first association with another entity, where we’re working with the Eagle Fighting Championship, while this is a very important event because it’s in commemoration of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. We’re hosting it in his honour," said Fouad Darwish, General Manager of Palms Sports

UAE Warriors 15 will have 15 bouts with Nurmagomedov providing nine fighters from his team. Nurmagomedov has been an ardent supporter of UAE Warriors and attended various events in past as a guest. “First and foremost, Khabib is a champion of many here,” Darwish said. “He has captured the hearts of many fighters - amateurs and professionals - and many supporters. And Khabib considers Abu Dhabi his second home.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-to-continue-during-new-english-lockdown-354549" hreflang="en">Premier League to continue during new English lockdown</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJc6BCCFGI7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);">
<div style="padding:16px;">
<div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;">
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 19% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJc6BCCFGI7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"><svg height="50px" version="1.1" viewbox="0 0 60 60" width="50px" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" stroke="none" stroke-width="1"><g fill="#000000" transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></a></div>

<div style="padding-top: 8px;">
<div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJc6BCCFGI7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank">View this post on Instagram</a></div>
</div>

<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div>
<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: 8px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<div style="margin-left: auto;">
<div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);">&nbsp;</div>
</div>
</div>

<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;">&nbsp;</div>

<div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;">&nbsp;</div>
</div>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CJc6BCCFGI7/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by EAGLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (@eaglefcmma)</a>
</div>
</blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“Khabib’s father was a dear friend to many here as well. He did so much for his kids, his country and many others, and for the sport of MMA so we are privileged to venerate such a world-class, kind man. My chairman, Abdulmunam Al Hashemi, goes way back with the family, and our leaders here all recognise Khabib’s accomplishments.

“So with our relationship, with the unwavering support we have seen from Khabib, it’s the least we can do to reciprocate some of the good he has given us. His father was a father to us all.”

The UAE Warriors 15 event, organised in partnership with Khabib Nurmagomedov, is set to take place on January 15 at the Jiu-jitsu Arena in Abu Dhabi. The much-awaited event, featuring Nurmagomedov, will be open to fans who have already taken the COVID-19 vaccine.

The UAE Warriors 15 event, organised in partnership with Khabib Nurmagomedov, is set to take place on January 15 at the Jiu-jitsu Arena in Abu Dhabi. The much-awaited event, featuring Nurmagomedov, will be open to fans who have already taken the COVID-19 vaccine. A joint venture with Nurmagomedov's Eagle Fighting Championship, the UAE Warriors 15 will commemorate Khabib's father and longtime coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, who died in July 2019. Reportedly, UAE Warriors 15 is set to be the first major sporting event in Abu Dhabi to welcome spectators since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Palms Sports, working on UAE Warriors, said that they are working closely with the National Crisis and Emergency Management Authority (NCEMA) to ensure the safe staging of the event. "The joint EAGLE FC and UAE WARRIORS tournament, which will take place in Dubai on January 15, will be open to the public. The fighting promotion administration has reached a mutual agreement on spectators' admission upon proof of a special document indicating the vaccination against COVID-19, received in Dubai. We remind you that the tournament will be held at the Jiu-Jitsu Arena on January 15. If you received the COVID-19 vaccination now, you are clear to watch EFC & UAE tournament!" ALSO READ: Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool View this post on Instagram A post shared by EAGLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (@eaglefcmma) × “That’s the beauty of this,” said Fouad Darwish, general manager of Palms Sports. “It’s going to be a very special event. As always, UAE Warriors and Palms Sports like to be pioneers in everything that we do. “It’s going to be the very first association with another entity, where we’re working with the Eagle Fighting Championship, while this is a very important event because it’s in commemoration of Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. We’re hosting it in his honour," said Fouad Darwish, General Manager of Palms Sports UAE Warriors 15 will have 15 bouts with Nurmagomedov providing nine fighters from his team. Nurmagomedov has been an ardent supporter of UAE Warriors and attended various events in past as a guest. “First and foremost, Khabib is a champion of many here,” Darwish said. “He has captured the hearts of many fighters - amateurs and professionals - and many supporters. And Khabib considers Abu Dhabi his second home. ALSO READ: Premier League to continue during new English lockdown View this post on Instagram A post shared by EAGLE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (@eaglefcmma) × “Khabib’s father was a dear friend to many here as well. He did so much for his kids, his country and many others, and for the sport of MMA so we are privileged to venerate such a world-class, kind man. My chairman, Abdulmunam Al Hashemi, goes way back with the family, and our leaders here all recognise Khabib’s accomplishments. “So with our relationship, with the unwavering support we have seen from Khabib, it’s the least we can do to reciprocate some of the good he has given us. His father was a father to us all.”

Get COVID-19 vaccine and watch Khabib Nurmagomedov-UAE Warriors 15 live event!

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl on Monday didn't hold his emotions back and shed tears of joy as he collapsed to his knees after the final whistle as an early Danny Ings strike helped the Saints complete a 1-0 win over defending champions Liverpool in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a>.

The Austrian coach broke down in joy and his emotional celebrations might have confused some fans to think Southampton just managed to win the Premier League. That is how much the win against Liverpool mattered to Hasenhuttl.

With wins against Liverpool becoming rare for Southampton, it was a memorable evening for Hasenhuttl, who took over the south-coast club in 2018. Before this win, Southampton's last victory against the Merseyside club came almost five years back.

“There were tears in my eyes – because of the wind!”, Hasenhuttl jokingly told BBC Sport.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rusty-liverpool-stumble-again-in-southampton-defeat-354547" hreflang="en">'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Our manager ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/zqRa9tesvh">pic.twitter.com/zqRa9tesvh</a>
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SouthamptonFC/status/1346220865957064712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“When you see our guys fighting with everything they have, it makes me really proud. You need to have the perfect game against Liverpool and I think we did have that.”

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
BEAMING 😍 
 
A proud night perfectly summed up by the manager:
— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SouthamptonFC/status/1346236068572631040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

After taking an early lead in the first half, Hasenhuttl's club defended deep for long periods but the Austrian admitted that it was deep into stoppage time when he felt Southampton could get a big result.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biased-and-discriminatory-act-uruguayan-players-association-rips-into-english-fa-over-edinson-cavanis-ban-354450" hreflang="en">'Biased and discriminatory act...': Uruguayan players' association rips into English FA over Edinson Cavani's ban</a>

“It felt like we were under massive pressure and the defending around the box was the key today – then still try and play football. We did it in a good way,” he said.

Whereas Liverpool counterpart Jurgen Klopp was left frustrated by the 1-0 defeat to Southampton after the troika of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane failed to rattle the net despite dominating possession.

“What was disappointing? How long have we got?” he told the BBC. “The start, obviously, not only the goal but the start in general. Congratulations to Southampton, they deserved it.”

“At the beginning, how we played, where we lost the balls – it’s not rocket science. We should have done much better. We played into their hands with the start,” he said.

“These are outstanding players, but they were not ready from the start.”

Liverpool are now three matches without a win.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl on Monday didn't hold his emotions back and shed tears of joy as he collapsed to his knees after the final whistle as an early Danny Ings strike helped the Saints complete a 1-0 win over defending champions Liverpool in Premier League.

Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl on Monday didn't hold his emotions back and shed tears of joy as he collapsed to his knees after the final whistle as an early Danny Ings strike helped the Saints complete a 1-0 win over defending champions Liverpool in Premier League. The Austrian coach broke down in joy and his emotional celebrations might have confused some fans to think Southampton just managed to win the Premier League. That is how much the win against Liverpool mattered to Hasenhuttl. With wins against Liverpool becoming rare for Southampton, it was a memorable evening for Hasenhuttl, who took over the south-coast club in 2018. Before this win, Southampton's last victory against the Merseyside club came almost five years back. “There were tears in my eyes – because of the wind!”, Hasenhuttl jokingly told BBC Sport. ALSO READ: 'Rusty' Liverpool stumble again in Southampton defeat Our manager ❤️ pic.twitter.com/zqRa9tesvh — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) January 4, 2021 × “When you see our guys fighting with everything they have, it makes me really proud. You need to have the perfect game against Liverpool and I think we did have that.” BEAMING 😍 A proud night perfectly summed up by the manager: — Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) January 4, 2021 × After taking an early lead in the first half, Hasenhuttl's club defended deep for long periods but the Austrian admitted that it was deep into stoppage time when he felt Southampton could get a big result. ALSO READ: 'Biased and discriminatory act...': Uruguayan players' association rips into English FA over Edinson Cavani's ban “It felt like we were under massive pressure and the defending around the box was the key today – then still try and play football. We did it in a good way,” he said. Whereas Liverpool counterpart Jurgen Klopp was left frustrated by the 1-0 defeat to Southampton after the troika of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane failed to rattle the net despite dominating possession. “What was disappointing? How long have we got?” he told the BBC. “The start, obviously, not only the goal but the start in general. Congratulations to Southampton, they deserved it.” “At the beginning, how we played, where we lost the balls – it’s not rocket science. We should have done much better. We played into their hands with the start,” he said. “These are outstanding players, but they were not ready from the start.” Liverpool are now three matches without a win.

Watch: Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl cries tears of joy as Saints defeat Liverpool

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A.

Ronaldo opened the scoring for Juventus in the first-half as he unleashed a superb strike to leave Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso helpless. Ronaldo then completed his brace in the second half as Juventus returned back to winning ways in the Allianz Stadium.

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, with the brace, completed his 758 goals in his splendid career - moving one ahead of Pele's all-time list.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-triumph-as-messi-makes-500th-liga-appearance-354333" hreflang="en">Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance</a>

Now, only Slavia Prague legend Josef Bican is ahead of Ronaldo with as many as 805 goals in 530 matches, scored between 1931 and 1955.

Fans hailed Ronaldo as one of the greatest players of all-time. Ronaldo has accumulated a whopping 450 goals during his nine-year stay at Real Madrid while completing his 700th career goal in 2019.

The former Manchester United forward's super-agent, Jorge Mendes, has always been vocal about Ronaldo's on-field achievement and had predicted that the Portuguese would go onto shatter Pele's record to cement his name even more in football history.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-double-lifts-juve-as-10-man-milan-stay-top-ahead-of-inter-354330" hreflang="en">Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter</a>

The 54-year-old Portuguese football agent told Sky Sports: "His numbers don't lie and light up the overwhelming way Cristiano Ronaldo shatters records, which elevate him to the category of best player in the history of football, with a big difference compared to the second [best] for all he achieved with the different clubs he represented, whether in England, Spain or now in Italy and also with the Portuguese national team."

Mendes added: "Cristiano has reached the remarkable milestone of 700 goals, but I have no doubt that he'll surpass Pele as the best scorer in football history, and he'll do it with Juventus."

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo on Sunday surpassed Brazilian legend Pele's record to sit second in the all-time goalscoring charts as the Portuguese maestro netted a brace to help Juventus defeat Udinese 4-1 in Serie A. Ronaldo opened the scoring for Juventus in the first-half as he unleashed a superb strike to leave Udinese goalkeeper Juan Musso helpless. Ronaldo then completed his brace in the second half as Juventus returned back to winning ways in the Allianz Stadium. The five-time Ballon d'Or winner, with the brace, completed his 758 goals in his splendid career - moving one ahead of Pele's all-time list. ALSO READ: Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance Now, only Slavia Prague legend Josef Bican is ahead of Ronaldo with as many as 805 goals in 530 matches, scored between 1931 and 1955. Fans hailed Ronaldo as one of the greatest players of all-time. Ronaldo has accumulated a whopping 450 goals during his nine-year stay at Real Madrid while completing his 700th career goal in 2019. The former Manchester United forward's super-agent, Jorge Mendes, has always been vocal about Ronaldo's on-field achievement and had predicted that the Portuguese would go onto shatter Pele's record to cement his name even more in football history. ALSO READ: Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter The 54-year-old Portuguese football agent told Sky Sports: "His numbers don't lie and light up the overwhelming way Cristiano Ronaldo shatters records, which elevate him to the category of best player in the history of football, with a big difference compared to the second [best] for all he achieved with the different clubs he represented, whether in England, Spain or now in Italy and also with the Portuguese national team." Mendes added: "Cristiano has reached the remarkable milestone of 700 goals, but I have no doubt that he'll surpass Pele as the best scorer in football history, and he'll do it with Juventus."

Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's record, climbs second in all-time goal-scoring charts

Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves.

Messi returned for Barca after missing the final game of 2020 with an ankle knock and swung in a cross for Frenkie de Jong to divert home for the only goal on 27 minutes.

Although Ronald Koeman's side began a potentially season-defining run of four consecutive away matches with a comfortable win, they remain a distant 10 points behind Atletico in fifth having played a game more.

"In general, aside from the last 20 minutes we played well," said Koeman.

"We created a lot of danger, which isn't easy against a team that shuts up at the back. We got a great goal and we had two or three more chances to pull away." &nbsp;

Barca dominated possession and created a number of chances but Huesca goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez produced several fine saves to keep the hosts in touch.

After De Jong's opener Messi was denied a second just before half-time when Fernandez superbly clawed away his free-kick heading towards the top corner.

The Argentine was again thwarted by the legs of Fernandez in the second half after combining well with Pedri, moments after Marc-Andre ter Stegen reacted sharply to keep out Rafa Mir's inventive back-heel.

That was a rare threat from Huesca who have now won just once in 17 tries this season but had taken points off most visitors to their Estadio El Alcoraz so far, including Atletico in September.&nbsp;

"We came out strong and very concentrated. It's the main base we need. If we have that, we improve a lot with the ball and if we get better in front of goal then we can have a very good start to the year," added Koeman.

<h2>- Suarez the saviour -</h2>

Earlier in the day, Suarez struck a 90th-minute winner for Atletico as they defeated 10-man Alaves 2-1 to move back above Real Madrid at the top.

Marcos Llorente gave Atletico the lead at Mendizorroza shortly before half-time with a deflected strike from just outside the area.

Diego Simeone's side appeared to have the game under control when Alaves defender Victor Laguardia was sent off on the hour following a VAR review for chopping down Thomas Lemar as the Frenchman ran towards goal.

Florian Lejeune headed against the post for Alaves before a spectacular own goal on 84 minutes from Felipe threatened to cost Atletico two vital points, the Brazilian centre-back&nbsp;drilling beyond Jan Oblak as he attempted to hack clear an attempted cross.

However, Suarez secured Atletico's fourth consecutive win in the final minute as the Uruguayan tapped in from close range after the ball was slotted across goal by substitute Joao Felix.

"The best thing is how the team finished, not getting nervous, just playing. And the goal was a great goal," said Simeone.

Atletico climbed two points clear of Real Madrid and have two games in hand on the defending champions.

"The takeaway from this is to continue on the same path," added Simeone.

Athletic Bilbao sacked coach Gaizka Garitano following a 1-0 home win over Elche, with reports in Spain linking former Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde to the vacant job.

Real Sociedad lost more ground on the top two after they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Osasuna, while teenager Bryan Gil scored both goals in Eibar's 2-0 defeat of Granada.

Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves.

Barcelona won 1-0 at bottom side Huesca on Sunday as Lionel Messi became the first foreigner to make 500 appearances in Spain's La Liga, while a late Luis Suarez goal secured leaders Atletico Madrid victory against Alaves. Messi returned for Barca after missing the final game of 2020 with an ankle knock and swung in a cross for Frenkie de Jong to divert home for the only goal on 27 minutes. Although Ronald Koeman's side began a potentially season-defining run of four consecutive away matches with a comfortable win, they remain a distant 10 points behind Atletico in fifth having played a game more. "In general, aside from the last 20 minutes we played well," said Koeman. "We created a lot of danger, which isn't easy against a team that shuts up at the back. We got a great goal and we had two or three more chances to pull away." Barca dominated possession and created a number of chances but Huesca goalkeeper Alvaro Fernandez produced several fine saves to keep the hosts in touch. After De Jong's opener Messi was denied a second just before half-time when Fernandez superbly clawed away his free-kick heading towards the top corner. The Argentine was again thwarted by the legs of Fernandez in the second half after combining well with Pedri, moments after Marc-Andre ter Stegen reacted sharply to keep out Rafa Mir's inventive back-heel. That was a rare threat from Huesca who have now won just once in 17 tries this season but had taken points off most visitors to their Estadio El Alcoraz so far, including Atletico in September. "We came out strong and very concentrated. It's the main base we need. If we have that, we improve a lot with the ball and if we get better in front of goal then we can have a very good start to the year," added Koeman. - Suarez the saviour - Earlier in the day, Suarez struck a 90th-minute winner for Atletico as they defeated 10-man Alaves 2-1 to move back above Real Madrid at the top. Marcos Llorente gave Atletico the lead at Mendizorroza shortly before half-time with a deflected strike from just outside the area. Diego Simeone's side appeared to have the game under control when Alaves defender Victor Laguardia was sent off on the hour following a VAR review for chopping down Thomas Lemar as the Frenchman ran towards goal. Florian Lejeune headed against the post for Alaves before a spectacular own goal on 84 minutes from Felipe threatened to cost Atletico two vital points, the Brazilian centre-back drilling beyond Jan Oblak as he attempted to hack clear an attempted cross. However, Suarez secured Atletico's fourth consecutive win in the final minute as the Uruguayan tapped in from close range after the ball was slotted across goal by substitute Joao Felix. "The best thing is how the team finished, not getting nervous, just playing. And the goal was a great goal," said Simeone. Atletico climbed two points clear of Real Madrid and have two games in hand on the defending champions. "The takeaway from this is to continue on the same path," added Simeone. Athletic Bilbao sacked coach Gaizka Garitano following a 1-0 home win over Elche, with reports in Spain linking former Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde to the vacant job. Real Sociedad lost more ground on the top two after they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to struggling Osasuna, while teenager Bryan Gil scored both goals in Eibar's 2-0 defeat of Granada.

Barca triumph as Messi makes 500th Liga appearance

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place.

The Milan clubs are top of the Italian league with Juventus 10 points adrift of the summit having played a game less.

Leaders AC Milan stayed one point ahead of Inter with a 2-0 win over midtable Benevento despite playing an hour a man down.

City rivals Inter crushed lowly Crotone 6-2 with Lautaro Martinez bagging his first hat-trick for the club.

But Milan restored their advantage thanks to a Franck Kessie penalty on 15 minutes and Rafael Leao's terrific curling strike from a tight angle shortly after half-time.

Sandro Tonali's sending off after 33 minutes for a high tackle on Artur Ionita did not hold back Stefano Pioli's side.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was solid in the Milan goal while Gianluca Caprari dragged a penalty wide on the hour.

"We don't let ourselves be put under pressure by the results of the opponents," said Pioli whose side are unbeaten in 27 league games going back to March.

"We're ambitious, we're not hiding it and we aim to win the next match as well against Juventus (on Wednesday)."

Ronaldo once again proved decisive for Juventus scoring a goal in each half to bring his league-leading tally to 14 this campaign and teeing up Federico Chiesa after the break.

Paulo Dybala added the fourth deep into injury time as Andrea Pirlo's side moved on from their shock 3-0 loss to Fiorentina last time out.

"It wasn't the best Juventus because we were coming off a bad defeat, we were a bit fearful at the beginning," said Pirlo.

"Slowly we grew and in the second half we did better. It's a delicate moment but we have to have confidence in what we can achieve and the determination to get there."

At the San Siro, Martinez and Romelu Lukaku combined to devastating effect for Inter who have now won eight league games in a row.

The strike duo were involved in five goals although midfielder Arturo Vidal was hauled off at half-time after conceding a penalty in a woeful display.

Antonio Conte's side had been pegged back 2-2 at the break with Niccolo Zanellato scoring first with a 12th-minute header for the rock bottom Calabrians with the worst attack in the league.

But Martinez picked up a Lukaku cross to pull the hosts level eight minutes later.

Martinez had a role in Inter's second just after half an hour when Crotone defender Luca Marrone turned the ball into his own net under pressure from the Argentina forward.

Vladimir Golemic put the sides level six minutes later after Vidal fouled Arkadiusz Reca, with a furious Conte replacing the Chilean with Stefano Sensi at the break.

<h2>- Roma stay third -</h2>

Martinez restored the lead for Inter before the hour connecting with a Marcelo Brozovic through ball following a Lukaku back-heel, and headed in his third with 12 minutes to go off a rebound.

Lukaku blasted in his 50th goal for Inter after 64 minutes but limped off after taking a knock to his right thigh 10 minutes later, before Achraf Hakimi rounded out the win with three minutes to go.

"There is great desire and it shows," said Conte as Inter target their first Serie A title since 2010 with their European campaign over this season.

Roma held third place, six points behind Inter, with captain Edin Dzeko scoring with a quarter of an hour to go in a 1-0 win in the rain over former Roma coach Claudio Ranieri's Sampdoria.&nbsp;

The capital side are ahead of Napoli who swept past Cagliari 4-1 with Piotr Zielinski scoring twice and Hirving Lozano and Lorenzo Insigne also on target late, the latter from the penalty spot.

In a clash of European rivals, Atalanta whipped Sassuolo 5-1 with Colombian Duvan Zapata scoring twice.

The Bergamo side were again playing without captain Papu Gomez who has fallen out with coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

Zapata and Matteo Pessina scored in the first half with the Colombian adding a second just after the break with Robin Gosens and Luis Muriel compounding the rout before Vlad Chiriches pulled a goal back.

Sassuolo are sixth one point ahead of Atalanta who have played a game less.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as champions Juventus bounced back from their first Serie A defeat of the season by beating Udinese 4-1 on Sunday to move up to fifth place. The Milan clubs are top of the Italian league with Juventus 10 points adrift of the summit having played a game less. Leaders AC Milan stayed one point ahead of Inter with a 2-0 win over midtable Benevento despite playing an hour a man down. City rivals Inter crushed lowly Crotone 6-2 with Lautaro Martinez bagging his first hat-trick for the club. But Milan restored their advantage thanks to a Franck Kessie penalty on 15 minutes and Rafael Leao's terrific curling strike from a tight angle shortly after half-time. Sandro Tonali's sending off after 33 minutes for a high tackle on Artur Ionita did not hold back Stefano Pioli's side. Gianluigi Donnarumma was solid in the Milan goal while Gianluca Caprari dragged a penalty wide on the hour. "We don't let ourselves be put under pressure by the results of the opponents," said Pioli whose side are unbeaten in 27 league games going back to March. "We're ambitious, we're not hiding it and we aim to win the next match as well against Juventus (on Wednesday)." Ronaldo once again proved decisive for Juventus scoring a goal in each half to bring his league-leading tally to 14 this campaign and teeing up Federico Chiesa after the break. Paulo Dybala added the fourth deep into injury time as Andrea Pirlo's side moved on from their shock 3-0 loss to Fiorentina last time out. "It wasn't the best Juventus because we were coming off a bad defeat, we were a bit fearful at the beginning," said Pirlo. "Slowly we grew and in the second half we did better. It's a delicate moment but we have to have confidence in what we can achieve and the determination to get there." At the San Siro, Martinez and Romelu Lukaku combined to devastating effect for Inter who have now won eight league games in a row. The strike duo were involved in five goals although midfielder Arturo Vidal was hauled off at half-time after conceding a penalty in a woeful display. Antonio Conte's side had been pegged back 2-2 at the break with Niccolo Zanellato scoring first with a 12th-minute header for the rock bottom Calabrians with the worst attack in the league. But Martinez picked up a Lukaku cross to pull the hosts level eight minutes later. Martinez had a role in Inter's second just after half an hour when Crotone defender Luca Marrone turned the ball into his own net under pressure from the Argentina forward. Vladimir Golemic put the sides level six minutes later after Vidal fouled Arkadiusz Reca, with a furious Conte replacing the Chilean with Stefano Sensi at the break. - Roma stay third - Martinez restored the lead for Inter before the hour connecting with a Marcelo Brozovic through ball following a Lukaku back-heel, and headed in his third with 12 minutes to go off a rebound. Lukaku blasted in his 50th goal for Inter after 64 minutes but limped off after taking a knock to his right thigh 10 minutes later, before Achraf Hakimi rounded out the win with three minutes to go. "There is great desire and it shows," said Conte as Inter target their first Serie A title since 2010 with their European campaign over this season. Roma held third place, six points behind Inter, with captain Edin Dzeko scoring with a quarter of an hour to go in a 1-0 win in the rain over former Roma coach Claudio Ranieri's Sampdoria. The capital side are ahead of Napoli who swept past Cagliari 4-1 with Piotr Zielinski scoring twice and Hirving Lozano and Lorenzo Insigne also on target late, the latter from the penalty spot. In a clash of European rivals, Atalanta whipped Sassuolo 5-1 with Colombian Duvan Zapata scoring twice. The Bergamo side were again playing without captain Papu Gomez who has fallen out with coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Zapata and Matteo Pessina scored in the first half with the Colombian adding a second just after the break with Robin Gosens and Luis Muriel compounding the rout before Vlad Chiriches pulled a goal back. Sassuolo are sixth one point ahead of Atalanta who have played a game less.

Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter

Frank Lampard knows the demands of being a Chelsea manager under Roman Abramovich more than most having played for nine different coaches during his playing career at Stamford Bridge.

Now Lampard is the man in the firing line after Sunday's 3-1 defeat to Manchester City capped a run of one win in six games that looks to have extinguished any hope of a Premier League title challenge.

Much more was expected of the Blues after a £220 million ($300 million) spending spree in the transfer market at a time when most of European football's major powers were scaling back due to the economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

After bankrolling the purchases of Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech, Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy, Abramovich will have expected more than Chelsea's position of eighth in the table nearly halfway through the season.

Patience has not been a virtue of the Russian's 18-year reign as Chelsea owner and even a club legend like Lampard, who is the club's all-time top goalscorer, is unlikely to be afforded much more time to turn the situation around.

The Athletic reported on Sunday that Chelsea are already lining up suitable candidates should the 42-year-old be sacked.

<h2>- Great expectations -</h2>

Lampard does have some credit in the bank from his first season in charge, which took the club back into the Champions League despite a transfer ban and the sale of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid.

But expectations have changed since the summer spending spree, even if Lampard has always cautioned Chelsea will need more time to match the standards set by Liverpool and City in recent seasons.

"The expectations are different this year because everyone looks and says 'you spent this amount of money'," Lampard said after a fourth defeat in six games.

"The reality is a lot of the players that have come in are new, young, have been injured, or not played together. There are a lot of expectations that are not real."&nbsp;

But the manner of defeat to a City side depleted by coronavirus infections and who have struggled to score goals this season, offered little sign of what Lampard is trying to build towards.

Chelsea's failure to launch a title challenge is all the more disappointing as Liverpool and City's standards have dropped in an unusual season, opening the door to the chasing pack.

As Manchester United and Tottenham have stepped forward to close the gap, Chelsea are trailing Leicester, Aston Villa and Everton, leaving Lampard with the lowest points-per-game tally of any manager in the Abramovich era.

The former England international's relationship with his players has also been questioned since his public rebuke of their attitude and commitment in a 3-1 defeat to Arsenal last weekend has not summoned the response he hoped for.

Instead there were more examples of lethargy as Ziyech watched on, while Kevin De Bruyne surged past him to score City's third goal inside 35 minutes.

Lampard's inability to summon the best from some of his big money buys has reportedly caused concern among the Chelsea hierarchy.

For the fourth consecutive game, the club's record signing Havertz only appeared as second-half substitute despite his side's struggles, while Werner, prolific in his time with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, has now failed to score in 13 games.

Lampard has been given the tools to build a team capable of much more than they have shown in the past month.

Now time is of the essence to start delivering if he is to ward off the same fate as so many Chelsea managers that have gone before him.

Frank Lampard knows the demands of being a Chelsea manager under Roman Abramovich more than most having played for nine different coaches during his playing career at Stamford Bridge.

Frank Lampard knows the demands of being a Chelsea manager under Roman Abramovich more than most having played for nine different coaches during his playing career at Stamford Bridge. Now Lampard is the man in the firing line after Sunday's 3-1 defeat to Manchester City capped a run of one win in six games that looks to have extinguished any hope of a Premier League title challenge. Much more was expected of the Blues after a £220 million ($300 million) spending spree in the transfer market at a time when most of European football's major powers were scaling back due to the economic effects of the coronavirus pandemic. After bankrolling the purchases of Kai Havertz, Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech, Ben Chilwell and Edouard Mendy, Abramovich will have expected more than Chelsea's position of eighth in the table nearly halfway through the season. Patience has not been a virtue of the Russian's 18-year reign as Chelsea owner and even a club legend like Lampard, who is the club's all-time top goalscorer, is unlikely to be afforded much more time to turn the situation around. The Athletic reported on Sunday that Chelsea are already lining up suitable candidates should the 42-year-old be sacked. - Great expectations - Lampard does have some credit in the bank from his first season in charge, which took the club back into the Champions League despite a transfer ban and the sale of Eden Hazard to Real Madrid. But expectations have changed since the summer spending spree, even if Lampard has always cautioned Chelsea will need more time to match the standards set by Liverpool and City in recent seasons. "The expectations are different this year because everyone looks and says 'you spent this amount of money'," Lampard said after a fourth defeat in six games. "The reality is a lot of the players that have come in are new, young, have been injured, or not played together. There are a lot of expectations that are not real." But the manner of defeat to a City side depleted by coronavirus infections and who have struggled to score goals this season, offered little sign of what Lampard is trying to build towards. Chelsea's failure to launch a title challenge is all the more disappointing as Liverpool and City's standards have dropped in an unusual season, opening the door to the chasing pack. As Manchester United and Tottenham have stepped forward to close the gap, Chelsea are trailing Leicester, Aston Villa and Everton, leaving Lampard with the lowest points-per-game tally of any manager in the Abramovich era. The former England international's relationship with his players has also been questioned since his public rebuke of their attitude and commitment in a 3-1 defeat to Arsenal last weekend has not summoned the response he hoped for. Instead there were more examples of lethargy as Ziyech watched on, while Kevin De Bruyne surged past him to score City's third goal inside 35 minutes. Lampard's inability to summon the best from some of his big money buys has reportedly caused concern among the Chelsea hierarchy. For the fourth consecutive game, the club's record signing Havertz only appeared as second-half substitute despite his side's struggles, while Werner, prolific in his time with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, has now failed to score in 13 games. Lampard has been given the tools to build a team capable of much more than they have shown in the past month. Now time is of the essence to start delivering if he is to ward off the same fate as so many Chelsea managers that have gone before him.

Chelsea collapse leaves Lampard testing Abramovich's patience

The Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU) on Monday ripped into the English Football Association (FA) on their three-match ban on Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani following a social media post where the Uruguayan referred to his friend as 'negrito'. Cavani deleted the post after being told about the meaning in English language and later apologised for it.

After investigating the incident, Cavani was suspended for three matches by the FA. The 33-year-old said that he used the world as an expression of affection to a close friend. The FA had said that the remark was “improper and brought the game into disrepute” and fined Cavani 100,000 pounds. Cavani has been asked to complete “face-to-face education” as part of his punishment.

The Uruguayan Football Players Association launched a scathing attack on English FA as they deemed the sanction on Cavani as a "discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people". The AFU further asked the English FA to "immediately overturn the sanction imposed" on Cavani.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-surpasses-peles-record-climbs-second-in-all-time-goal-scoring-charts-354342">Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's goal-scoring record</a>

AFU, in its statement, passionately defended Cavani as they said that the veteran footballer never committed anything that could be "interpreted as racist".

Cavani, after accepting the sanction by English FA, said that while he apologised if someone was hurt by his post, he was disappointed by the charge handed out by the English governing body.

Even Atletico Madrid and Uruguayan defender Diego Godin along with Jose Maria Gimenez, Lucas Torreira, Luis Suarez among others, shared the official statement by AFU on his Twitter account.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/apologise-if-i-offended-someone-manchester-uniteds-edinson-cavani-accepts-fa-sanction-353912">'Apologise if I offended someone' - Manchester United's Edinson Cavani accepts FA sanction</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇺🇾¡Estamos con vos <a href="https://twitter.com/ECavaniOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ECavaniOfficial</a>!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GraciasNegrito?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GraciasNegrito</a> <a href="https://t.co/hPJZKT6Zy1">pic.twitter.com/hPJZKT6Zy1</a>
— MUFP (@Mutual_Uru) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mutual_Uru/status/1346081914113970176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
COMUNICADO OFICIAL <a href="https://t.co/WzLkG6nlSf">pic.twitter.com/WzLkG6nlSf</a>
— Diego Godín (@diegogodin) <a href="https://twitter.com/diegogodin/status/1346079065690808324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
👊🏻🙌🏻 <a href="https://t.co/kuZxiFybmU">https://t.co/kuZxiFybmU</a>
— Luis Suarez (@LuisSuarez9) <a href="https://twitter.com/LuisSuarez9/status/1346096808074817536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Full statement of the Uruguayan Football Players Association on Edinson Cavani:</h2>

"The undersigned members of the Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU), composed of both the men and women professional and amateur sectors, including the different types, would like to state the following in response to the sanction imposed by the English Football Association on our colleague Edinson Cavani:

"Firstly, we must condemn the arbitrary conduct of the English Football Association. Far from condemning racism, the English Football Association has itself committed a discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people. The sanction shows the English Football Association's biased, dogmatic and ethnocentric vision that only allows a subjective interpretation to be made from its particular and excluding conclusion, however flawed it may be.

"Edinson Cavani has never committed any conduct that could be interpreted as racist. He merely used a common expression in Latin America to affectionately address a loved one or close friend. To sustain that the only way to obtain a valid interpretation in life is that which lies in the minds of the managers of the English Football Association is actually a true discriminatory act, which is completely reprehensible and against Uruguayan culture.&nbsp;

"We would therefore like to publicly defend Edison Cavani's impeccable character and of course our country's culture. We are all against any kind of discrimination; however, unfortunately, through its sanction, the English Football Association expresses absolute ignorance and disdain for a multicultural vision of the world, respectively of its plurality, by erroneously, unilaterally and rigidly imposing its anti-racist rules, the basis of which we support but are obviously not realistically applicable to the case in question here. It has not just punished one person, but also our whole culture, our way of life, which is truly a discriminatory and racist act.

"Lastly, we urge the English Football Association to review its decision-making processes related to these issues immediately so that it does not commit any similar injustice ever again. Its regulations should take into account the plurality of people's ways of life and cultures. The first rule to fight against racism is to respect such different ways of life and cultures.

"By virtue of the foregoing, we request the FA to immediately overturn the sanction imposed on Edinson Cavani and reinstate his good name and honour in the world that has been so unfairly tarnished by the reprehensible decision.

"Montevideo, 3 January 2021."

The Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU) on Monday ripped into the English Football Association (FA) on their three-match ban on Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani following a social media post where the Uruguayan referred to his friend as 'negrito'.

The Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU) on Monday ripped into the English Football Association (FA) on their three-match ban on Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani following a social media post where the Uruguayan referred to his friend as 'negrito'. Cavani deleted the post after being told about the meaning in English language and later apologised for it. After investigating the incident, Cavani was suspended for three matches by the FA. The 33-year-old said that he used the world as an expression of affection to a close friend. The FA had said that the remark was “improper and brought the game into disrepute” and fined Cavani 100,000 pounds. Cavani has been asked to complete “face-to-face education” as part of his punishment. The Uruguayan Football Players Association launched a scathing attack on English FA as they deemed the sanction on Cavani as a "discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people". The AFU further asked the English FA to "immediately overturn the sanction imposed" on Cavani. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's goal-scoring record AFU, in its statement, passionately defended Cavani as they said that the veteran footballer never committed anything that could be "interpreted as racist". Cavani, after accepting the sanction by English FA, said that while he apologised if someone was hurt by his post, he was disappointed by the charge handed out by the English governing body. Even Atletico Madrid and Uruguayan defender Diego Godin along with Jose Maria Gimenez, Lucas Torreira, Luis Suarez among others, shared the official statement by AFU on his Twitter account. ALSO READ: 'Apologise if I offended someone' - Manchester United's Edinson Cavani accepts FA sanction 🇺🇾¡Estamos con vos @ECavaniOfficial!#GraciasNegrito pic.twitter.com/hPJZKT6Zy1 — MUFP (@Mutual_Uru) January 4, 2021 × COMUNICADO OFICIAL pic.twitter.com/WzLkG6nlSf — Diego Godín (@diegogodin) January 4, 2021 × 👊🏻🙌🏻 https://t.co/kuZxiFybmU — Luis Suarez (@LuisSuarez9) January 4, 2021 × Full statement of the Uruguayan Football Players Association on Edinson Cavani: "The undersigned members of the Uruguayan Football Players Association (AFU), composed of both the men and women professional and amateur sectors, including the different types, would like to state the following in response to the sanction imposed by the English Football Association on our colleague Edinson Cavani: "Firstly, we must condemn the arbitrary conduct of the English Football Association. Far from condemning racism, the English Football Association has itself committed a discriminatory act against the culture and way of life of the Uruguayan people. The sanction shows the English Football Association's biased, dogmatic and ethnocentric vision that only allows a subjective interpretation to be made from its particular and excluding conclusion, however flawed it may be. "Edinson Cavani has never committed any conduct that could be interpreted as racist. He merely used a common expression in Latin America to affectionately address a loved one or close friend. To sustain that the only way to obtain a valid interpretation in life is that which lies in the minds of the managers of the English Football Association is actually a true discriminatory act, which is completely reprehensible and against Uruguayan culture. "We would therefore like to publicly defend Edison Cavani's impeccable character and of course our country's culture. We are all against any kind of discrimination; however, unfortunately, through its sanction, the English Football Association expresses absolute ignorance and disdain for a multicultural vision of the world, respectively of its plurality, by erroneously, unilaterally and rigidly imposing its anti-racist rules, the basis of which we support but are obviously not realistically applicable to the case in question here. It has not just punished one person, but also our whole culture, our way of life, which is truly a discriminatory and racist act. "Lastly, we urge the English Football Association to review its decision-making processes related to these issues immediately so that it does not commit any similar injustice ever again. Its regulations should take into account the plurality of people's ways of life and cultures. The first rule to fight against racism is to respect such different ways of life and cultures. "By virtue of the foregoing, we request the FA to immediately overturn the sanction imposed on Edinson Cavani and reinstate his good name and honour in the world that has been so unfairly tarnished by the reprehensible decision. "Montevideo, 3 January 2021."

'Biased and discriminatory act...': Uruguayan players' association rips into English FA over Edinson Cavani's ban

Leicester have the potential to disrupt the dominance of the 'Big Six' in the Premier League, says Foxes manager Brendan Rodgers.

The Northern Irishman's side lie third in the table after beating Newcastle 2-1 on Sunday.

Leicester -- who in 2016 became the only club from outside the 'Big Six' to win the league title since 1995 -- are a point behind leaders Liverpool, who visit Southampton later on Monday, and second-placed Manchester United.

Leicester have played a game more than several of their rivals in a wide-open title race, with just seven points separating Liverpool and United from West Ham in 10th.

By comparison, Liverpool held a 27-point advantage over the team in 10th place after 16 games last season, as did Manchester City at a similar stage in the 2017-18 campaign.

Rodgers says that while Leicester may be unable to compete financially with the biggest clubs, they can make their presence felt on the pitch.

"We want to be a team that, year on year, can get European football," said Rodgers.

"Our job is, can we disrupt the hierarchy? We might not financially - we don't have the finances to go and get that £70 million ($96 million), £80m, £90m player -- but we can in a football way."

Rodgers said his initial goal is to qualify for European football next term.

A loss of form at the end of last season cost Leicester a Champions League spot but they are into the knockout stage of the Europa League after topping their group.

"My ambition is to get into Europe again and for us to progress," said Rodgers.

"What's nice is our top players are getting their fitness back and that's exciting for us in the second part of the season."

England midfielder James Maddison is one of the players who have returned from injury and had an immediate impact, scoring at Newcastle.

Maddison and Belgian international Youri Tielemans's goal helped the Foxes to their seventh win away from home this campaign -- the most in the Premier League.

"We are playing with intensity and a bit of swagger. Newcastle felt the full force of a top-of-the-table Premier League team," said Maddison.

Leicester have the potential to disrupt the dominance of the 'Big Six' in the Premier League, says Foxes manager Brendan Rodgers. The Northern Irishman's side lie third in the table after beating Newcastle 2-1 on Sunday.

Leicester have the potential to disrupt the dominance of the 'Big Six' in the Premier League, says Foxes manager Brendan Rodgers. The Northern Irishman's side lie third in the table after beating Newcastle 2-1 on Sunday. Leicester -- who in 2016 became the only club from outside the 'Big Six' to win the league title since 1995 -- are a point behind leaders Liverpool, who visit Southampton later on Monday, and second-placed Manchester United. Leicester have played a game more than several of their rivals in a wide-open title race, with just seven points separating Liverpool and United from West Ham in 10th. By comparison, Liverpool held a 27-point advantage over the team in 10th place after 16 games last season, as did Manchester City at a similar stage in the 2017-18 campaign. Rodgers says that while Leicester may be unable to compete financially with the biggest clubs, they can make their presence felt on the pitch. "We want to be a team that, year on year, can get European football," said Rodgers. "Our job is, can we disrupt the hierarchy? We might not financially - we don't have the finances to go and get that £70 million ($96 million), £80m, £90m player -- but we can in a football way." Rodgers said his initial goal is to qualify for European football next term. A loss of form at the end of last season cost Leicester a Champions League spot but they are into the knockout stage of the Europa League after topping their group. "My ambition is to get into Europe again and for us to progress," said Rodgers. "What's nice is our top players are getting their fitness back and that's exciting for us in the second part of the season." England midfielder James Maddison is one of the players who have returned from injury and had an immediate impact, scoring at Newcastle. Maddison and Belgian international Youri Tielemans's goal helped the Foxes to their seventh win away from home this campaign -- the most in the Premier League. "We are playing with intensity and a bit of swagger. Newcastle felt the full force of a top-of-the-table Premier League team," said Maddison.

Leicester can upset Premier League established order, says Rodgers

Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has added another feather to his illustrious cap as the Juventus forward touched 250 million followers on photo-blogging platform Instagram, making the five-time Ballon d'Or winner the first-ever person to touch the iconic landmark.&nbsp;

The Portugal ace became the most popular celebrity on Instagram by completing 250 million followers on the platform with pop star Ariana Grande being second in the list with 214 million followers. Hollywood actor and WWE icon Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is third in the list of people with most Instagram following with 209 million followers.

Interestingly, the followers of all 20 Premier League clubs are far less than Ronaldo's followers on Instagram. The 20 Premier League clubs combined have 159 million followers - 90 million less than Ronaldo's latest numbers on Instagram.

<img alt="Ronaldo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2c96df82-2db0-45f8-a41e-d112ebec97ed" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Eqt2eGuU0AIfuxE.jpg" />

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ronaldo-double-lifts-juve-as-10-man-milan-stay-top-ahead-of-inter-354330" hreflang="en">Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter</a>

As Ronaldo continues to rule social media, a Forbes report stated that the Portuguese earned $47.8 million from paid posts on Instagram in the year 2020. Ronaldo is quite active on social media platforms and posts photographs and videos of his family including wife Georgine Rodrigues - who has 22.8 million followers on Instagram. Ronaldo also posts about his workout regime, his match photos and memorable moments from his life.

In the footballing world, Lionel Messi is next to Ronaldo in terms of Instagram followers with the Barcelona forward having 174 million followers. The only account on Instagram which has more followers than Ronaldo is Instagram's official handle with as many as 382 followers.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-surpasses-peles-record-climbs-second-in-all-time-goal-scoring-charts-354342" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's record, climbs second in all-time goal-scoring charts</a>

Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues to shatter record books as he surpassed Pele's goal-scoring tally to become the player with second-most goals in the history of football.

Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has added another feather to his illustrious cap as the Juventus forward touched 250 million followers on photo-blogging platform Instagram, making the five-time Ballon d'Or winner the first-ever person to touch the iconic landmark.

Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo has added another feather to his illustrious cap as the Juventus forward touched 250 million followers on photo-blogging platform Instagram, making the five-time Ballon d'Or winner the first-ever person to touch the iconic landmark. The Portugal ace became the most popular celebrity on Instagram by completing 250 million followers on the platform with pop star Ariana Grande being second in the list with 214 million followers. Hollywood actor and WWE icon Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson is third in the list of people with most Instagram following with 209 million followers. Interestingly, the followers of all 20 Premier League clubs are far less than Ronaldo's followers on Instagram. The 20 Premier League clubs combined have 159 million followers - 90 million less than Ronaldo's latest numbers on Instagram. ALSO READ: Ronaldo double lifts Juve as 10-man Milan stay top ahead of Inter As Ronaldo continues to rule social media, a Forbes report stated that the Portuguese earned $47.8 million from paid posts on Instagram in the year 2020. Ronaldo is quite active on social media platforms and posts photographs and videos of his family including wife Georgine Rodrigues - who has 22.8 million followers on Instagram. Ronaldo also posts about his workout regime, his match photos and memorable moments from his life. In the footballing world, Lionel Messi is next to Ronaldo in terms of Instagram followers with the Barcelona forward having 174 million followers. The only account on Instagram which has more followers than Ronaldo is Instagram's official handle with as many as 382 followers. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo surpasses Pele's record, climbs second in all-time goal-scoring charts Meanwhile, Ronaldo continues to shatter record books as he surpassed Pele's goal-scoring tally to become the player with second-most goals in the history of football.

Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first person to hit 250 million Instagram followers

Mikel Arteta said Thursday that Arsenal's priority in the January transfer window is to trim their bloated squad as he seeks to&nbsp;build on a mini-revival at the Premier League club.

The Gunners were able to offload Emiliano Martinez and Henrikh Mkhitaryan in the summer window while Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira departed on loan.

But forgotten man Mesut Ozil remained at the Emirates along with Shkodran Mustafi and Sead Kolasinac, who have barely featured in the Premier League this season.

Arsenal announced later on Thursday that Kolasinac had agreed to join Bundesliga side Schalke on loan for the rest of the season.

The club have been linked with a loan move for Real Madrid playmaker Isco in January but first of all technical director Edu will attempt to raise funds by moving on those who are surplus to requirements.

"There are some players that are going to go on loan and going to leave and that is the priority at the moment," Arteta said ahead of Saturday's trip to West Brom.

"We cannot sustain the numbers that we have in certain positions and we are looking to do that, and then we will see if we have the right opportunity in the positions where we need some more help."

The pressure on Arteta has eased after wins against Chelsea and Brighton lifted Arsenal to 13th in the Premier League table following a miserable run.

Bukayo Saka, who starred in the 1-0 win at Brighton on Tuesday, is expected to be fit for the match against Sam Allardyce's West Brom.

The teenager was forced off during the latter stages of the victory after a strong challenge, but should recover while David Luiz and Willian, who both tested negative for Covid-19 earlier this week, may return this weekend after a bout of illness.

Allardyce this week called for a "circuit-breaker" in the Premier League as coronavirus cases spike in Britain but league bosses said the competition would continue as planned.

"I think we have shown the system is working," said Arteta. "In the last week or so something has happened and we will have more restrictions and more tests to try to be as efficient as we were before and we will see, but I think it can work and we can carry on."

Mikel Arteta said Thursday that Arsenal's priority in the January transfer window is to trim their bloated squad as he seeks to build on a mini-revival at the Premier League club.

Mikel Arteta said Thursday that Arsenal's priority in the January transfer window is to trim their bloated squad as he seeks to build on a mini-revival at the Premier League club. The Gunners were able to offload Emiliano Martinez and Henrikh Mkhitaryan in the summer window while Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira departed on loan. But forgotten man Mesut Ozil remained at the Emirates along with Shkodran Mustafi and Sead Kolasinac, who have barely featured in the Premier League this season. Arsenal announced later on Thursday that Kolasinac had agreed to join Bundesliga side Schalke on loan for the rest of the season. The club have been linked with a loan move for Real Madrid playmaker Isco in January but first of all technical director Edu will attempt to raise funds by moving on those who are surplus to requirements. "There are some players that are going to go on loan and going to leave and that is the priority at the moment," Arteta said ahead of Saturday's trip to West Brom. "We cannot sustain the numbers that we have in certain positions and we are looking to do that, and then we will see if we have the right opportunity in the positions where we need some more help." The pressure on Arteta has eased after wins against Chelsea and Brighton lifted Arsenal to 13th in the Premier League table following a miserable run. Bukayo Saka, who starred in the 1-0 win at Brighton on Tuesday, is expected to be fit for the match against Sam Allardyce's West Brom. The teenager was forced off during the latter stages of the victory after a strong challenge, but should recover while David Luiz and Willian, who both tested negative for Covid-19 earlier this week, may return this weekend after a bout of illness. Allardyce this week called for a "circuit-breaker" in the Premier League as coronavirus cases spike in Britain but league bosses said the competition would continue as planned. "I think we have shown the system is working," said Arteta. "In the last week or so something has happened and we will have more restrictions and more tests to try to be as efficient as we were before and we will see, but I think it can work and we can carry on."

Arteta says 'priority' in transfer window is to trim bloated Arsenal squad

Neymar laughed off controversy Thursday over reports he was throwing a mega New Year's party for 500 guests, posting a video online of preparations for what he called a "low-key dinner" with family and friends.

The superstar footballer has faced a flood of criticism in his native Brazil and beyond over reports that despite the coronavirus pandemic he was ringing in 2021 with a week-long bash for hundreds of people at his mansion outside Rio de Janeiro.

However, he took to Instagram several hours before midnight to show his New Year's Eve plans, which he described as small-scale.

The 28-year-old Paris Saint-Germain striker posted a video of a dinner table that appeared to be for about 40 guests, decked out with white flowers and an empty chair between each place setting.

"Marvelous decoration for this beautiful, low-key little dinner at home, with social distancing," he said.

"And it's not for 500 people, ok?" he added with a laugh.

"Social distancing. Everyone tested," he wrote in a caption.

Earlier, he posted videos of himself and his nine-year-old son getting what he called his "50th test" for the new coronavirus.

Neymar, who hasn't played since injuring his ankle against Lyon on December 13, had previously avoided commenting on reports about his supposed party in the seaside town of Mangaratiba.

Rio de Janeiro state prosecutors have opened an investigation into the reports.

They said Neymar denied on Thursday hosting any party in Mangaratiba, according to news site G1.

The footballer has reportedly traveled to Santa Catarina state in southern Brazil to ring in the New Year there.

His press office did not immediately respond to questions from AFP on his plans.

Brazil has the second-highest death toll in the pandemic, after the United States, with nearly 195,000 people killed by Covid-19.

Neymar laughed off controversy Thursday over reports he was throwing a mega New Year's party for 500 guests, posting a video online of preparations for what he called a "low-key dinner" with family and friends.

Neymar laughed off controversy Thursday over reports he was throwing a mega New Year's party for 500 guests, posting a video online of preparations for what he called a "low-key dinner" with family and friends. The superstar footballer has faced a flood of criticism in his native Brazil and beyond over reports that despite the coronavirus pandemic he was ringing in 2021 with a week-long bash for hundreds of people at his mansion outside Rio de Janeiro. However, he took to Instagram several hours before midnight to show his New Year's Eve plans, which he described as small-scale. The 28-year-old Paris Saint-Germain striker posted a video of a dinner table that appeared to be for about 40 guests, decked out with white flowers and an empty chair between each place setting. "Marvelous decoration for this beautiful, low-key little dinner at home, with social distancing," he said. "And it's not for 500 people, ok?" he added with a laugh. "Social distancing. Everyone tested," he wrote in a caption. Earlier, he posted videos of himself and his nine-year-old son getting what he called his "50th test" for the new coronavirus. Neymar, who hasn't played since injuring his ankle against Lyon on December 13, had previously avoided commenting on reports about his supposed party in the seaside town of Mangaratiba. Rio de Janeiro state prosecutors have opened an investigation into the reports. They said Neymar denied on Thursday hosting any party in Mangaratiba, according to news site G1. The footballer has reportedly traveled to Santa Catarina state in southern Brazil to ring in the New Year there. His press office did not immediately respond to questions from AFP on his plans. Brazil has the second-highest death toll in the pandemic, after the United States, with nearly 195,000 people killed by Covid-19.

Neymar laughs off reports of New Year's party for 500

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland is expected to make an eagerly awaited return from injury as his side look to battle back into the Bundesliga top four with a win over high-fliers Wolfsburg on Sunday.&nbsp;

The prolific Norwegian prodigy has missed the last four league games and the last seven in all competitions after picking up a hamstring injury in early December.&nbsp;

Yet the 20-year-old returned to team training this week, and Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc confirmed that he would be back in action this weekend.

"Erling’s recovery has gone well. We are working on the assumption that he can play against Wolfsburg," said Zorc.

Haaland’s return is timely, with his side in desperate need of a win after a miserable run of form before Christmas saw them drop to fifth in the table, eight points behind leaders Bayern Munich and two behind Sunday's opponents Wolfsburg.

Dortmund sacked coach Lucien Favre after they were thrashed by promoted side Stuttgart in mid-December, before suffering a shock away defeat to minnows Union Berlin in their second game under caretaker boss Edin Terzic.&nbsp;

Defeat to Wolfsburg would see Dortmund lose four home league games in a row for the first time in 20 years.

"The most important thing is that we start well and end well," said Haaland, who has scored 17 goals in 14 games in all competitions this season.

In a season squashed by the coronavirus pandemic, many Bundesliga clubs have had just a week off in the shortest winter break in the league’s history.&nbsp;

Yet after their pre-Christmas cup tie was postponed until January, champions Bayern have had an extra week to recover and are expected to waltz past struggling Mainz on Sunday and defend their two-point lead at the top of the table.&nbsp;

Second from bottom and without a win in six games, Mainz parted ways with both their coach and sporting director over Christmas. Huddersfield boss Jan Siewert will take the reins as interim coach against Bayern.&nbsp;

There has also been a changing of the guard at bottom club Schalke, where new coach Christian Gross will take charge of his first game away to Hertha Berlin on Saturday.

Former Tottenham and Stuttgart coach Gross has been charged with leading Schalke out of danger and ending their miserable winless streak of 29 games.

Having not won since last January, the seven-time German champions are now just two games away from equalling Tasmania Berlin’s unwanted record of 31 games without a win, set back in 1966.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>One to watch: Manuel Neuer</h2>

Fresh from his coronation as the world’s best goalkeeper, the Bayern stopper is just one game away from equalling Oliver Kahn’s club record of 196 Bundesliga clean sheets, a milestone he has been chasing in vain for more than two months.&nbsp;

If he fails again to reach Kahn’s mark against Mainz, Neuer will have gone nine league games without a clean sheet for only the second time in his Bayern career.&nbsp;

<h2>Key stats</h2>

150 - RB Leipzig will celebrate their 150th Bundesliga game when they take on Stuttgart on Saturday. They have won 80 of them so far, more than any other German club at the same milestone.&nbsp;

50 - Weeks since Schalke’s last Bundesliga win in January last year. The league’s bottom club are just two games away from equalling Tasmania Berlin’s unwanted record of 31 games without a win.&nbsp;

10 - Goals Erling Braut Haaland has scored in his eight league games for Borussia Dortmund this season. The Norwegian is set to make his first appearance in a month against Wolfsburg.&nbsp;

Fixtures (all times 1430 GMT unless stated)

Saturday

Werder Bremen v Union Berlin, Arminia Bielefeld v Borussia Moenchengladbach, Cologne v Augsburg, Eintracht Frankfurt v Bayer Leverkusen, Hoffenheim v Freiburg, Hertha Berlin v Schalke (1730), Stuttgart v RB Leipzig (1930)

&nbsp;

Sunday

Borussia Dortmund v Wolfsburg, Bayern Munich v Mainz (1700)

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland is expected to make an eagerly awaited return from injury as his side look to battle back into the Bundesliga top four with a win over high-fliers Wolfsburg on Sunday.

Borussia Dortmund striker Erling Braut Haaland is expected to make an eagerly awaited return from injury as his side look to battle back into the Bundesliga top four with a win over high-fliers Wolfsburg on Sunday. The prolific Norwegian prodigy has missed the last four league games and the last seven in all competitions after picking up a hamstring injury in early December. Yet the 20-year-old returned to team training this week, and Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc confirmed that he would be back in action this weekend. "Erling’s recovery has gone well. We are working on the assumption that he can play against Wolfsburg," said Zorc. Haaland’s return is timely, with his side in desperate need of a win after a miserable run of form before Christmas saw them drop to fifth in the table, eight points behind leaders Bayern Munich and two behind Sunday's opponents Wolfsburg. Dortmund sacked coach Lucien Favre after they were thrashed by promoted side Stuttgart in mid-December, before suffering a shock away defeat to minnows Union Berlin in their second game under caretaker boss Edin Terzic. Defeat to Wolfsburg would see Dortmund lose four home league games in a row for the first time in 20 years. "The most important thing is that we start well and end well," said Haaland, who has scored 17 goals in 14 games in all competitions this season. In a season squashed by the coronavirus pandemic, many Bundesliga clubs have had just a week off in the shortest winter break in the league’s history. Yet after their pre-Christmas cup tie was postponed until January, champions Bayern have had an extra week to recover and are expected to waltz past struggling Mainz on Sunday and defend their two-point lead at the top of the table. Second from bottom and without a win in six games, Mainz parted ways with both their coach and sporting director over Christmas. Huddersfield boss Jan Siewert will take the reins as interim coach against Bayern. There has also been a changing of the guard at bottom club Schalke, where new coach Christian Gross will take charge of his first game away to Hertha Berlin on Saturday. Former Tottenham and Stuttgart coach Gross has been charged with leading Schalke out of danger and ending their miserable winless streak of 29 games. Having not won since last January, the seven-time German champions are now just two games away from equalling Tasmania Berlin’s unwanted record of 31 games without a win, set back in 1966. One to watch: Manuel Neuer Fresh from his coronation as the world’s best goalkeeper, the Bayern stopper is just one game away from equalling Oliver Kahn’s club record of 196 Bundesliga clean sheets, a milestone he has been chasing in vain for more than two months. If he fails again to reach Kahn’s mark against Mainz, Neuer will have gone nine league games without a clean sheet for only the second time in his Bayern career. Key stats 150 - RB Leipzig will celebrate their 150th Bundesliga game when they take on Stuttgart on Saturday. They have won 80 of them so far, more than any other German club at the same milestone. 50 - Weeks since Schalke’s last Bundesliga win in January last year. The league’s bottom club are just two games away from equalling Tasmania Berlin’s unwanted record of 31 games without a win. 10 - Goals Erling Braut Haaland has scored in his eight league games for Borussia Dortmund this season. The Norwegian is set to make his first appearance in a month against Wolfsburg. Fixtures (all times 1430 GMT unless stated) Saturday Werder Bremen v Union Berlin, Arminia Bielefeld v Borussia Moenchengladbach, Cologne v Augsburg, Eintracht Frankfurt v Bayer Leverkusen, Hoffenheim v Freiburg, Hertha Berlin v Schalke (1730), Stuttgart v RB Leipzig (1930) Sunday Borussia Dortmund v Wolfsburg, Bayern Munich v Mainz (1700)

Haaland back in action as Bundesliga returns from mini-break

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate.&nbsp;

Ahead of their away match against Chelsea, Man City returned to training after the coronavirus outbreak, within the squad, led to the postponement of Monday’s clash against Everton. The United Kingdom continues to battle COVID-19 and its new strain.&nbsp;

“We had enough players to play against Everton - we wanted to play - but on the day of the game with the day before four cases, the virus was inside. I called Ancelotti to announce the situation because we could play, but if we travel and we had been in touch with our infected players, we could infect Everton,” Guardiola said in a press conference on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-the-premier-league-get-suspended-heres-everything-you-need-to-know-353425" hreflang="en">Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know</a> 
 
“It was a big risk. Not just here. Around the world,” he added.

Man City have identified only Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker as having contracted the dreaded virus. However, Guardiola said that Man City have a good squad to travel to Stamford Bridge and play with enthusiasm and good will.

“We have a good squad to go there (Stamford Bridge) and try to compete against a tough opponent - Chelsea. &nbsp;But we go there to play our game with enthusiasm and good will. We try to do our job and do a good performance,” Guardiola said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-miss-chance-to-stretch-lead-after-newcastle-stalemate-353543" hreflang="en">Liverpool miss chance to stretch lead after Newcastle stalemate</a>

Earlier on Friday, Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that there have been a “couple” of cases among the club’s staff but clarified the players weren’t infected.

Manchester City currently sits eighth in the Premier League points table after playing 14 matches, two less than league leaders Liverpool, and will look to topple Chelsea, who also have 26 points, in the standings.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their Premier League match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate.

Pep Guardiola on Friday confirmed that five Manchester City players won’t be available for their Premier League match against Chelsea after testing positive for the coronavirus as they continue to isolate. Ahead of their away match against Chelsea, Man City returned to training after the coronavirus outbreak, within the squad, led to the postponement of Monday’s clash against Everton. The United Kingdom continues to battle COVID-19 and its new strain. “We had enough players to play against Everton - we wanted to play - but on the day of the game with the day before four cases, the virus was inside. I called Ancelotti to announce the situation because we could play, but if we travel and we had been in touch with our infected players, we could infect Everton,” Guardiola said in a press conference on Friday. ALSO READ: Will the Premier League get suspended? Here's everything you need to know “It was a big risk. Not just here. Around the world,” he added. Man City have identified only Gabriel Jesus and Kyle Walker as having contracted the dreaded virus. However, Guardiola said that Man City have a good squad to travel to Stamford Bridge and play with enthusiasm and good will. “We have a good squad to go there (Stamford Bridge) and try to compete against a tough opponent - Chelsea. But we go there to play our game with enthusiasm and good will. We try to do our job and do a good performance,” Guardiola said. ALSO READ: Liverpool miss chance to stretch lead after Newcastle stalemate Earlier on Friday, Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said that there have been a “couple” of cases among the club’s staff but clarified the players weren’t infected. Manchester City currently sits eighth in the Premier League points table after playing 14 matches, two less than league leaders Liverpool, and will look to topple Chelsea, who also have 26 points, in the standings.

5 Man City players isolating after testing positive for coronavirus

Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani has accepted the three-match suspension handed by the Football Association (FA) for using a racial term on social media platform as the Uruguayan said that while he did not agree with FA’s assessment of his comment, his heart was at peace.

Cavani used the word “negrito” on Instagram after Manchester United’s win against Southampton on November 29 before removing and apologising. The 33-year-old said it was intended as an expression of affection to a close friend.

The FA on Thursday said that the remark was “improper and brought the game into disrepute” and fined Cavani 100,000 pounds. Cavani has been asked to complete “face-to-face education” as part of his punishment.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/5-man-city-players-isolating-after-testing-positive-for-coronavirus-353898" hreflang="en">5 Man City players isolating after testing positive for coronavirus</a>

Manchester United said Cavani opted not to contest the charge out of respect for the FA and “fight against racism in football” and the Uruguayan posted an apology on social media on Thursday.

“I do not want to extend much in this uncomfortable moment,” Cavani wrote on Instagram. “I want to share with you that I accept the disciplinary sanction knowing that I am foreign to English language customs, but I do not share the point of view.

“I apologise if I offended someone with an expression of affection towards a friend, nothing further in my intention. Those who know me know that my effort always seeks the simplest joy and friendship!”

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arteta-says-priority-in-transfer-window-is-to-trim-bloated-arsenal-squad-353783" hreflang="en">Arteta says 'priority' in transfer window is to trim bloated Arsenal squad</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://t.co/P4TwyWPQ3N">pic.twitter.com/P4TwyWPQ3N</a>
— Edi Cavani Official (@ECavaniOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECavaniOfficial/status/1344752372933939204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, Manchester United will miss Cavani for their next three matches against Aston Villa (Premier League), Manchester City (League Cup) and Watford (FA Cup) to be played on January 2, 7 and 10 respectively.&nbsp;

The Red Devils are currently sitting second in the Premier League standings with 30 points in 15 matches. 
&nbsp;

Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani has accepted the three-match suspension handed by the Football Association (FA) for using a racial term on social media platform as the Uruguayan said that while he did not agree with FA’s assessment of his comment, his heart was at peace.

Manchester United forward Edinson Cavani has accepted the three-match suspension handed by the Football Association (FA) for using a racial term on social media platform as the Uruguayan said that while he did not agree with FA’s assessment of his comment, his heart was at peace. Cavani used the word “negrito” on Instagram after Manchester United’s win against Southampton on November 29 before removing and apologising. The 33-year-old said it was intended as an expression of affection to a close friend. The FA on Thursday said that the remark was “improper and brought the game into disrepute” and fined Cavani 100,000 pounds. Cavani has been asked to complete “face-to-face education” as part of his punishment. ALSO READ: 5 Man City players isolating after testing positive for coronavirus Manchester United said Cavani opted not to contest the charge out of respect for the FA and “fight against racism in football” and the Uruguayan posted an apology on social media on Thursday. “I do not want to extend much in this uncomfortable moment,” Cavani wrote on Instagram. “I want to share with you that I accept the disciplinary sanction knowing that I am foreign to English language customs, but I do not share the point of view. “I apologise if I offended someone with an expression of affection towards a friend, nothing further in my intention. Those who know me know that my effort always seeks the simplest joy and friendship!” ALSO READ: Arteta says 'priority' in transfer window is to trim bloated Arsenal squad pic.twitter.com/P4TwyWPQ3N — Edi Cavani Official (@ECavaniOfficial) December 31, 2020 × Meanwhile, Manchester United will miss Cavani for their next three matches against Aston Villa (Premier League), Manchester City (League Cup) and Watford (FA Cup) to be played on January 2, 7 and 10 respectively. The Red Devils are currently sitting second in the Premier League standings with 30 points in 15 matches.

'Apologise if I offended someone' - Manchester United's Edinson Cavani accepts FA sanction

Brazilian football star Neymar has been asked to appear before Rio de Janeiro state prosecutors “urgently” to provide a statement after reports emerged that the Paris Saint-Germain star is holding a five-day New Year’s party with as many as 150 guests. However, the player’s media officer has denied hosting any event in Neymar’s luxury condominium in Mangaratiba, 105 km down the coast from Rio.

Authorities stated that several complaints have been received about the event, which the Brazilian media reported was being held in Mangaratiba.

State prosecutors said that Neymar and condominium representatives had been asked to provide “details about the number of people invited, the party’s organization and the health measures adopted”.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-prosecutors-investigate-alleged-neymar-new-years-party-353546" hreflang="en">Brazil prosecutors investigate alleged Neymar New Years party</a>

Day Crespo, Neymar’s media officer told Reuters that the player “will not host any party this year, we are in the middle of a pandemic and he is with his friends and family”.

Crespo said that the player flew to Santa Catarina state. On Wednesday, Neymar posted a photograph on social media platform Instagram where he was tagged from Balneario Camboriu.

After the details of the event were revealed in newspapers, the agency organising the party said it would be subject to stringent health rules in a bid to halt the spread of COVID-19 virus. The event was private and all relevant permissions have been obtained, it added, without mentioning Neymar or the name of any host.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

Earlier on Thursday, newspapers said that guests had arrived at the luxurious mansion where the player owns property.

Meanwhile, the dreaded coronavirus has killed more than 192,000 people in Brazil and on Wednesday, 1,194 people were reported to have died from the virus.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-neymars-new-year-bash-sparks-outrage-353688">WATCH|</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-neymars-new-year-bash-sparks-outrage-353688/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Brazilian football star Neymar has been asked to appear before Rio de Janeiro state prosecutors “urgently” to provide a statement after reports emerged that the Paris Saint-Germain star is holding a five-day New Year’s party with as many as 150 guests.

Brazilian football star Neymar has been asked to appear before Rio de Janeiro state prosecutors “urgently” to provide a statement after reports emerged that the Paris Saint-Germain star is holding a five-day New Year’s party with as many as 150 guests. However, the player’s media officer has denied hosting any event in Neymar’s luxury condominium in Mangaratiba, 105 km down the coast from Rio. Authorities stated that several complaints have been received about the event, which the Brazilian media reported was being held in Mangaratiba. State prosecutors said that Neymar and condominium representatives had been asked to provide “details about the number of people invited, the party’s organization and the health measures adopted”. ALSO READ: Brazil prosecutors investigate alleged Neymar New Years party Day Crespo, Neymar’s media officer told Reuters that the player “will not host any party this year, we are in the middle of a pandemic and he is with his friends and family”. Crespo said that the player flew to Santa Catarina state. On Wednesday, Neymar posted a photograph on social media platform Instagram where he was tagged from Balneario Camboriu. After the details of the event were revealed in newspapers, the agency organising the party said it would be subject to stringent health rules in a bid to halt the spread of COVID-19 virus. The event was private and all relevant permissions have been obtained, it added, without mentioning Neymar or the name of any host. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 Earlier on Thursday, newspapers said that guests had arrived at the luxurious mansion where the player owns property. Meanwhile, the dreaded coronavirus has killed more than 192,000 people in Brazil and on Wednesday, 1,194 people were reported to have died from the virus. WATCH| ×

Neymar asked to provide statement to Brazil courts over New Year party plans

Cristiano Ronaldo on Friday greeted his fans on the occasion of New Year as the Juventus megastar motivated people to bounce back in the year 2021 and make a difference while adding that everyone can still become better versions of themselves.&nbsp;

The Portuguese further wished that the year 2021 will be remembered for the best reasons as he took to social media platform Twitter to post a photograph with his family.&nbsp; 
"2020 was not an easy year, there's no doubt about it. No one can be indifferent to the pain and suffering that COVID-19 brought upon the world. But now it's time to bounce back and show that, together, we can make a difference. Because no matter how hard is the fall, what really defines us is the way we get back on our feet and how fast we are ready to face new obstacles," Ronaldo said in a while sharing a picture with his girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez, and all four kids.

"So let's try to turn 2021 into a turning point, a new beginning, a fresh start. Because all us - and I do mean all of us - can still become better versions of ourselves. And if we do it all together, that might actually be the secret to turn things around for the better. Happy New Year! And may 2021 be a year to always remember for the best reasons!" he added on Facebook.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
2020 was not an easy year, there’s no doubt about it. No one can be indifferent to the pain and suffering that COVID-19 brought upon the world. 
But now it’s time to bounce back and show that, together, we can make a difference. 
Happy New Year!🙏🏽❤️ <a href="https://t.co/7n1i0ARjiK">pic.twitter.com/7n1i0ARjiK</a>
— Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano/status/1344769621199564800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Recently, Ronaldo was honoured with ‘Player of the Century’ award at the Globe Soccer Awards. The former Real Madrid star enjoyed phenomenal success in the last decade as he along with Lionel Messi set the bar higher with their hunger to achieve more laurels.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ronaldo also ended the year 2020 as the highest scorer in the top five European leagues in the world with a total of 33 goals, just ahead of Robert Lewandowski (32) and Ciro Immobile (27).&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/armand-mondo-duplantis-i-want-to-be-the-best-pole-vaulter-to-ever-live-exclusive-interview-353813" hreflang="en">Armand 'Mondo' Duplantis: I want to be the best pole vaulter to ever live | Exclusive Interview</a>

Ronaldo would be looking to help his club Juventus get back to the top of Serie A after a torrid start to the season and also aim to win the UEFA Champions League title with the Old Lady. 
&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo on Friday greeted his fans on the occasion of New Year as the Juventus megastar motivated people to bounce back in the year 2021 and make a difference while adding that everyone can still become better versions of themselves.

Cristiano Ronaldo on Friday greeted his fans on the occasion of New Year as the Juventus megastar motivated people to bounce back in the year 2021 and make a difference while adding that everyone can still become better versions of themselves. The Portuguese further wished that the year 2021 will be remembered for the best reasons as he took to social media platform Twitter to post a photograph with his family. "2020 was not an easy year, there's no doubt about it. No one can be indifferent to the pain and suffering that COVID-19 brought upon the world. But now it's time to bounce back and show that, together, we can make a difference. Because no matter how hard is the fall, what really defines us is the way we get back on our feet and how fast we are ready to face new obstacles," Ronaldo said in a while sharing a picture with his girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez, and all four kids. "So let's try to turn 2021 into a turning point, a new beginning, a fresh start. Because all us - and I do mean all of us - can still become better versions of ourselves. And if we do it all together, that might actually be the secret to turn things around for the better. Happy New Year! And may 2021 be a year to always remember for the best reasons!" he added on Facebook. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 2020 was not an easy year, there’s no doubt about it. No one can be indifferent to the pain and suffering that COVID-19 brought upon the world. But now it’s time to bounce back and show that, together, we can make a difference. Happy New Year!🙏🏽❤️ pic.twitter.com/7n1i0ARjiK — Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) December 31, 2020 × Recently, Ronaldo was honoured with ‘Player of the Century’ award at the Globe Soccer Awards. The former Real Madrid star enjoyed phenomenal success in the last decade as he along with Lionel Messi set the bar higher with their hunger to achieve more laurels. Meanwhile, Ronaldo also ended the year 2020 as the highest scorer in the top five European leagues in the world with a total of 33 goals, just ahead of Robert Lewandowski (32) and Ciro Immobile (27). ALSO READ: Armand 'Mondo' Duplantis: I want to be the best pole vaulter to ever live | Exclusive Interview Ronaldo would be looking to help his club Juventus get back to the top of Serie A after a torrid start to the season and also aim to win the UEFA Champions League title with the Old Lady.

It's time to bounce back in 2021: Cristiano Ronaldo greets fans with a heartfelt post on New Year

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia, scheduled to be played in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively. While Ajinkya Rahane continues to lead the side in the absence of Virat Kohli whereas Rohit Sharma has been named as the vice-captain of the Test squad, replacing Cheteshwar Pujara who deputised Rahane in the Boxing Day Test.<o:p></o:p>

Thangarasu Natarajan and Shardul Thakur have also been added to the Indian Test squad with the duo competing for the third pacer’s spot in the Indian playing XI along with Navdeep Saini. <o:p></o:p>

Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Pujara, Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammed Siraj continue to be in the squad for the last two Tests against Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yearender-2020-how-sportspersons-set-social-media-on-fire-in-coronavirus-hit-year-353667" hreflang="en">Yearender 2020: How sportspersons set social media on fire in coronavirus-hit year</a>

Rohit Sharma’s promotion for the vice-captain of the Indian team suggests that the Hitman in all likelihood will start for the visitors in the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney. <o:p></o:p>

India and Australia are firmly locked 1-1 in the four-match Test series. While Australia won the first Test in Adelaide by eight wickets, India bounced back in Melbourne to win the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to level the series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">BCCI statement on Indian Test squad for last two Tests vs Australia: <o:p></o:p></h2>

"Umesh Yadav sustained a strain in his left calf muscle on Day 3 of the second Border-Gavaskar Test in Melbourne. He underwent scans later in the day. The fast bowler will not recover completely ahead of the remaining two Test matches and has been ruled out of the series.<o:p></o:p>

"The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named T Natarajan as Yadav’s replacement. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Shardul Thakur was added to the Test squad as Mohd. Shami's replacement after the senior fast bowler suffered a hairline fracture in his right forearm. Both Shami and Umesh Yadav will head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of their injuries."

Team India Test squad: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Jasprit Bumrah, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan<o:p></o:p>

<o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia, scheduled to be played in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday announced the Indian squad for the last two Tests against Australia, scheduled to be played in Melbourne and Brisbane respectively. While Ajinkya Rahane continues to lead the side in the absence of Virat Kohli whereas Rohit Sharma has been named as the vice-captain of the Test squad, replacing Cheteshwar Pujara who deputised Rahane in the Boxing Day Test. Thangarasu Natarajan and Shardul Thakur have also been added to the Indian Test squad with the duo competing for the third pacer’s spot in the Indian playing XI along with Navdeep Saini. Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Pujara, Rahane, Rishabh Pant, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Mohammed Siraj continue to be in the squad for the last two Tests against Australia. ALSO READ: Yearender 2020: How sportspersons set social media on fire in coronavirus-hit year Rohit Sharma’s promotion for the vice-captain of the Indian team suggests that the Hitman in all likelihood will start for the visitors in the third Test, scheduled to start on January 7 in Sydney. India and Australia are firmly locked 1-1 in the four-match Test series. While Australia won the first Test in Adelaide by eight wickets, India bounced back in Melbourne to win the Boxing Day Test by eight wickets to level the series. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners BCCI statement on Indian Test squad for last two Tests vs Australia: "Umesh Yadav sustained a strain in his left calf muscle on Day 3 of the second Border-Gavaskar Test in Melbourne. He underwent scans later in the day. The fast bowler will not recover completely ahead of the remaining two Test matches and has been ruled out of the series. "The All-India Senior Selection Committee has named T Natarajan as Yadav’s replacement. Ahead of the Boxing Day Test, Shardul Thakur was added to the Test squad as Mohd. Shami's replacement after the senior fast bowler suffered a hairline fracture in his right forearm. Both Shami and Umesh Yadav will head to the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru for further rehabilitation of their injuries." Team India Test squad: Ajinkya Rahane (Captain), Rohit Sharma (vice-captain), Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul, Cheteshwar Pujara, Hanuma Vihari, Shubman Gill, Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper), Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), Jasprit Bumrah, Navdeep Saini, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, R. Ashwin, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, T Natarajan

India announce squad for last two Test vs Australia, Rohit Sharma appointed vice-captain

Brazilian prosecutors said Wednesday they were&nbsp;investigating reports that football star Neymar has organized a New Year's Eve mega-party at his luxury home near Rio de Janeiro, despite public health measures to curb rising coronavirus deaths.

Sources close to the striker denied he had plans to host such an extravaganza, while the Paris Saint-German player added to the mystery by simply posting pictures of himself with a friend on a yacht off a beach in the southern state of Santa Catarina.&nbsp;

The Rio Prosecutor's Office said in a statement that it had opened an investigation after receiving "several claims, based on information released by the press, about the events sponsored by the player Neymar."&nbsp;

The prosecutor's office also urged Neymar, as well as the exclusive community where his mansion is located and another neighboring residential complex, to urgently provide clarifications as to "the number of guests, the organization of parties and any health measures they might have put in place."

One of Neymar's assistants told AFP he had did not know whether the player will see in 2021 in his luxury mansion in Mangaratiba, a small town 130 km (85 miles) from Rio, or if he will stay in Santa Catarina.&nbsp;

Media reports about a planned party attended by between 150 and 500 people triggered a wave of criticism at a time when scientists in Brazil, one of the worst-hit countries in the world, are pushing for social distancing and isolation to avoid worsening a pandemic that has already cost some 194,000 lives there.

Such a party would not, however, be illegal, since the state of Rio de Janeiro has not banned parties in private residences and the Mangaratiba city council admitted it did not have the power to intervene.&nbsp;

The AFP flew over the area where the mansion is located on Wednesday, without observing any signs of party preparations on the grounds.&nbsp;

Neymar bought the mansion in 2016 and according to media reports, the 10,000 square meter property features a helipad, tennis courts, a spa, a sauna, a massage room, a gym and areas for food and drinks.

Brazilian prosecutors said Wednesday they were investigating reports that football star Neymar has organized a New Year's Eve mega-party at his luxury home near Rio de Janeiro, despite public health measures to curb rising coronavirus deaths.

Brazilian prosecutors said Wednesday they were investigating reports that football star Neymar has organized a New Year's Eve mega-party at his luxury home near Rio de Janeiro, despite public health measures to curb rising coronavirus deaths. Sources close to the striker denied he had plans to host such an extravaganza, while the Paris Saint-German player added to the mystery by simply posting pictures of himself with a friend on a yacht off a beach in the southern state of Santa Catarina. The Rio Prosecutor's Office said in a statement that it had opened an investigation after receiving "several claims, based on information released by the press, about the events sponsored by the player Neymar." The prosecutor's office also urged Neymar, as well as the exclusive community where his mansion is located and another neighboring residential complex, to urgently provide clarifications as to "the number of guests, the organization of parties and any health measures they might have put in place." One of Neymar's assistants told AFP he had did not know whether the player will see in 2021 in his luxury mansion in Mangaratiba, a small town 130 km (85 miles) from Rio, or if he will stay in Santa Catarina. Media reports about a planned party attended by between 150 and 500 people triggered a wave of criticism at a time when scientists in Brazil, one of the worst-hit countries in the world, are pushing for social distancing and isolation to avoid worsening a pandemic that has already cost some 194,000 lives there. Such a party would not, however, be illegal, since the state of Rio de Janeiro has not banned parties in private residences and the Mangaratiba city council admitted it did not have the power to intervene. The AFP flew over the area where the mansion is located on Wednesday, without observing any signs of party preparations on the grounds. Neymar bought the mansion in 2016 and according to media reports, the 10,000 square meter property features a helipad, tennis courts, a spa, a sauna, a massage room, a gym and areas for food and drinks.

Brazil prosecutors investigate alleged Neymar New Years party

Liverpool squandered the chance to open up a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League in the final English top-flight match of 2020 after being held to a goalless draw by Newcastle on Wednesday.

The 0-0 stalemate at St James' Park means the champions go into the New Year with a three-point lead over Manchester United, having played a game more.

But they will rue their missed chances in a match in which they enjoyed nearly three-quarters of possession.

Mohamed Salah -- top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with 13 goals -- missed the target either side of half-time with just goalkeeper Karl Darlow to beat and strike-partner Roberto Firmino saw two headers superbly saved.

Three days after lowly West Brom snatched a point at Anfield, Jurgen Klopp's men, who have now won only two of their eight league away games this season, were frustrated once again, although it took a late goal-line clearance from Fabian Schar and Darlow's brilliance to keep them at bay.

Klopp rued his side's profligacy in front of goal.

"You might not think I have to tip my hat to my team but I like the performance," he told the BBC. "It was really good. Can we play better football? Yes, but in this game we did more than enough to win it.

"I think we had four 100 percent chances. We have won against Newcastle before with fewer chances. Tonight we didn't but we accept that. I am happy with the things I saw tonight and I can really work with that.

"The boys are frustrated and rightly so but not about the performance. It is a basis to build on for the next few days, weeks, months."

Newcastle, who came into the match without a win in four games in all competitions, started positively, with returning striker Callum Wilson almost catching goalkeeper Alisson Becker unaware with a speculative early shot.

The Reds needed Alisson to be at his best to deny Wilson once again 10 minutes later after he had outpaced defender Nathaniel Phillips.

<h2>- Liverpool wasteful -</h2>

Liverpool should have been ahead 11 minutes before the break when Salah beat the offside trap to control the ball in front of the advancing Darlow, only to stab his shot wide of the post, and the keeper produced a fine reaction save in stoppage time to repel Firmino's header from point-blank range.

Mane headed into the side-netting from Trent Alexander-Arnold's 49th-minute corner and when Liverpool turned the screw, with Mane going through his full repertoire of tricks, the Magpies' rearguard came under increasing pressure.

Salah had another chance to break the deadlock midway through the second half when he was played in by Firmino but, after steadying himself, directed his effort past the upright.

Firmino was equally wasteful when presented with a glorious chance at the far post as Newcastle rode their luck.

It nearly got much better for the Magpies 11 minutes from time when Ciaran Clark met Matt Ritchie's free-kick with a downward header that Alisson had to turn away.

But Schar hacked the ball off his own line ahead of Mane seconds later and Darlow brilliantly clawed away another Firmino header at the death to preserve his clean sheet.

Klopp's men finish the calendar year on 33 points from 16 games, three clear of United, who have 30 points after 15 matches.

The two teams, with a combined 39 English titles between them, meet on January 17 at Anfield.

Liverpool squandered the chance to open up a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League in the final English top-flight match of 2020 after being held to a goalless draw by Newcastle on Wednesday.

Liverpool squandered the chance to open up a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League in the final English top-flight match of 2020 after being held to a goalless draw by Newcastle on Wednesday. The 0-0 stalemate at St James' Park means the champions go into the New Year with a three-point lead over Manchester United, having played a game more. But they will rue their missed chances in a match in which they enjoyed nearly three-quarters of possession. Mohamed Salah -- top of the Premier League goalscoring charts with 13 goals -- missed the target either side of half-time with just goalkeeper Karl Darlow to beat and strike-partner Roberto Firmino saw two headers superbly saved. Three days after lowly West Brom snatched a point at Anfield, Jurgen Klopp's men, who have now won only two of their eight league away games this season, were frustrated once again, although it took a late goal-line clearance from Fabian Schar and Darlow's brilliance to keep them at bay. Klopp rued his side's profligacy in front of goal. "You might not think I have to tip my hat to my team but I like the performance," he told the BBC. "It was really good. Can we play better football? Yes, but in this game we did more than enough to win it. "I think we had four 100 percent chances. We have won against Newcastle before with fewer chances. Tonight we didn't but we accept that. I am happy with the things I saw tonight and I can really work with that. "The boys are frustrated and rightly so but not about the performance. It is a basis to build on for the next few days, weeks, months." Newcastle, who came into the match without a win in four games in all competitions, started positively, with returning striker Callum Wilson almost catching goalkeeper Alisson Becker unaware with a speculative early shot. The Reds needed Alisson to be at his best to deny Wilson once again 10 minutes later after he had outpaced defender Nathaniel Phillips. - Liverpool wasteful - Liverpool should have been ahead 11 minutes before the break when Salah beat the offside trap to control the ball in front of the advancing Darlow, only to stab his shot wide of the post, and the keeper produced a fine reaction save in stoppage time to repel Firmino's header from point-blank range. Mane headed into the side-netting from Trent Alexander-Arnold's 49th-minute corner and when Liverpool turned the screw, with Mane going through his full repertoire of tricks, the Magpies' rearguard came under increasing pressure. Salah had another chance to break the deadlock midway through the second half when he was played in by Firmino but, after steadying himself, directed his effort past the upright. Firmino was equally wasteful when presented with a glorious chance at the far post as Newcastle rode their luck. It nearly got much better for the Magpies 11 minutes from time when Ciaran Clark met Matt Ritchie's free-kick with a downward header that Alisson had to turn away. But Schar hacked the ball off his own line ahead of Mane seconds later and Darlow brilliantly clawed away another Firmino header at the death to preserve his clean sheet. Klopp's men finish the calendar year on 33 points from 16 games, three clear of United, who have 30 points after 15 matches. The two teams, with a combined 39 English titles between them, meet on January 17 at Anfield.

Liverpool miss chance to stretch lead after Newcastle stalemate

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has said that Britain should feel proud to have "ambassador of the calibre of Lewis Hamilton" after the iconic Formula One World champions was awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours list.

Hamilton has been honoured with the accolade after a record-breaking year where he surpassed Michael Schumacher’s all-time win tally and equalled the German by winning a seventh world title.

Wolff has witnessed Hamilton’s success at Mercedes after the Briton switched sides from McLaren in 2013. Since then, Hamilton has won six of his seven world titles with Mercedes.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lewis-hamilton-knighted-in-uks-new-year-honours-list-353538" hreflang="en">Lewis Hamilton knighted in UK's New Year Honours list</a>

The Mercedes boss hailed the 35-year-old for his incredible sporting success while lauding his efforts to battle discrimination.&nbsp;

"The news that he is to receive a knighthood shows that he is now receiving the recognition he has earned during a career of unparalleled success in motorsport," said Wolff.

"The UK can be very proud to have a champion and ambassador of the calibre of Sir Lewis Hamilton."

Hamilton, who resides in Monaco, has faced severe criticism in the past over his tax arrangements but has said that he still pays a substantial amount of tax in Britain. Hamilton is among the top 5,000 highest tax-paying people in the UK.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-hamilton-to-ronaldo-athletes-who-tested-positive-for-covid-19-in-2020-352776" hreflang="en">From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020</a>

The Briton won his record-equalling title against the backdrop of his battle against injustices. Lending his support to racial discrimination issues, Hamilton took a knee before all his F1 2020 races while Mercedes changed their livery from silver to black to highlight the issue of discrimination.

Britain's Damon Hill, world champion in 1996, told Sky News: "Lewis has stood up for issues that are close to his heart and affect everyone.

"In our sport, it is very rare for a driver to get involved in anything that is outside of Formula One. But Lewis has said this affects every black person and he stood up at a time when it could have destabilised his career and destabilised his concentration on the championship." 
&nbsp;

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has said that Britain should feel proud to have "ambassador of the calibre of Lewis Hamilton" after the iconic Formula One World champions was awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours list.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has said that Britain should feel proud to have "ambassador of the calibre of Lewis Hamilton" after the iconic Formula One World champions was awarded a knighthood in the New Year Honours list. Hamilton has been honoured with the accolade after a record-breaking year where he surpassed Michael Schumacher’s all-time win tally and equalled the German by winning a seventh world title. Wolff has witnessed Hamilton’s success at Mercedes after the Briton switched sides from McLaren in 2013. Since then, Hamilton has won six of his seven world titles with Mercedes. ALSO READ: Lewis Hamilton knighted in UK's New Year Honours list The Mercedes boss hailed the 35-year-old for his incredible sporting success while lauding his efforts to battle discrimination. "The news that he is to receive a knighthood shows that he is now receiving the recognition he has earned during a career of unparalleled success in motorsport," said Wolff. "The UK can be very proud to have a champion and ambassador of the calibre of Sir Lewis Hamilton." Hamilton, who resides in Monaco, has faced severe criticism in the past over his tax arrangements but has said that he still pays a substantial amount of tax in Britain. Hamilton is among the top 5,000 highest tax-paying people in the UK. ALSO READ: From Hamilton to Ronaldo: Athletes who tested positive for COVID-19 in 2020 The Briton won his record-equalling title against the backdrop of his battle against injustices. Lending his support to racial discrimination issues, Hamilton took a knee before all his F1 2020 races while Mercedes changed their livery from silver to black to highlight the issue of discrimination. Britain's Damon Hill, world champion in 1996, told Sky News: "Lewis has stood up for issues that are close to his heart and affect everyone. "In our sport, it is very rare for a driver to get involved in anything that is outside of Formula One. But Lewis has said this affects every black person and he stood up at a time when it could have destabilised his career and destabilised his concentration on the championship."

Britain should be 'proud' of knighted Lewis Hamilton: Mercedes' Toto Wolff

football-news

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

football news