Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero on Saturday came into the spotlight not due to his goal-scoring prowess but for his behavior on the field as he was heavily criticized on social media for putting his arm on the shoulder of female assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis during Man City’s 1-0 win over Arsenal.

Aguero argued with Massey on the sidelines over a throw-in call which went against him early in the second of the Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium. After disputing the throw-in call, Aguero briefly put his arm around the female assistant referee’s shoulder as she began to walk away.

While it was Aguero’s first match since June after the knee surgery, the Argentine found himself as the focal topic on social media with his former team-mate Micah Richards saying on Sky Sports that Aguero should “know better”. Many bashed Aguero while some defended him saying that it is the nature of the game and the Argentine didn't have any ill-intention behind it.

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We have not heard the last of this. Sergio Aguero out of order here <a href="https://t.co/XXreySE4zB">pic.twitter.com/XXreySE4zB</a>
— Kevin Palmer (@RealKevinPalmer) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealKevinPalmer/status/1317533930384445441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Why bring gender in it? And also he has touched several male referees in very similar situations. No need for the ‘gender card’ <a href="https://t.co/ZKyZMF9xdd">pic.twitter.com/ZKyZMF9xdd</a>
— David Morton (@Davidmorton01) <a href="https://twitter.com/Davidmorton01/status/1317539351421718531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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🎙Pep’s answer re Sergio Aguero 🇦🇷/Sian Massey-Ellis incident at Man City this evening. “Come on guys. Sergio is the nicest person I ever met in my life. Look for problems in other situations not in this one.” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCIARS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCIARS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Aguero?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Aguero</a> 
 
<a href="https://t.co/QwS7lY3k8d">pic.twitter.com/QwS7lY3k8d</a>
— RouteOneFootball (@Route1futbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/Route1futbol/status/1317564407757512704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sergio Aguero, one of the greatest strikers in PL history, did this today. 
 
Commentators didn’t care to mention it, most fans didn’t notice it, others made sexist jokes, and I don't see <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@premierleague</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fa</a> take any action. 
 
How is this tolerated in 2020? <a href="https://t.co/zLsF0ppmvf">pic.twitter.com/zLsF0ppmvf</a>
— Rupin Kale (@Vegansportlover) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vegansportlover/status/1317533408415772673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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For me, looks like he’s mouthed off at her, realised he’s wrong then put his arm round her in apology, and she’s tapped him back to acknowledge that
— Dave King (@DaveKing1990) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaveKing1990/status/1317585003279208450?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Agree. Should have been sent off for that. Sorry. Big admirer of his but what he did was disrespectful. No excuses. Needs retrospective punishment.
— WeegieBoard Stats 🟡🔴🔢👤 (@TheWeegieBoard) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheWeegieBoard/status/1317580353020792832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Under rules introduced in 2016, players can be warned or sent off for touching match officials depending on the nature of incident. While players have been spotted putting their arms on match officials, referees usually take the context and intention before putting it down in their match report which goes to the FA.&nbsp;

Massey had every right to send Aguero off had she found any malice in Aguero’s move and more importantly, she could have written it down in her match report. However, nothing of that sort is being reported.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/late-blitz-saves-man-utd-blushes-as-var-denies-liverpool-336156" hreflang="en">Late blitz saves Man Utd blushes as VAR denies Liverpool</a>

But City's all-time record scorer went unpunished and in his post-match press conference, Guardiola told reporters: "Come on guys. Sergio is the nicest person I ever met in my life.&nbsp;

"Look for problems in other situations, not in this one."

Last year, Man City’s Bernardo Silva suffered a ban after one of his tweets, where he jokingly compared team-mate Benjamin Mendy to a cartoon character, was held racist by social media users before the Portuguese was punished by the FA.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero on Saturday came into the spotlight not due to his goal-scoring prowess but for his behavior on the field as he was heavily criticized on social media for putting his arm on the shoulder of female assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis during Man City’s 1-0 win over Arsenal.

Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero on Saturday came into the spotlight not due to his goal-scoring prowess but for his behavior on the field as he was heavily criticized on social media for putting his arm on the shoulder of female assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis during Man City’s 1-0 win over Arsenal. Aguero argued with Massey on the sidelines over a throw-in call which went against him early in the second of the Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium. After disputing the throw-in call, Aguero briefly put his arm around the female assistant referee’s shoulder as she began to walk away. While it was Aguero’s first match since June after the knee surgery, the Argentine found himself as the focal topic on social media with his former team-mate Micah Richards saying on Sky Sports that Aguero should “know better”. Many bashed Aguero while some defended him saying that it is the nature of the game and the Argentine didn't have any ill-intention behind it. ALSO READ: Mourinho could use a creative position for Tottenham star Bale: Glenn Hoddle We have not heard the last of this. Sergio Aguero out of order here pic.twitter.com/XXreySE4zB — Kevin Palmer (@RealKevinPalmer) October 17, 2020 × Why bring gender in it? And also he has touched several male referees in very similar situations. No need for the ‘gender card’ pic.twitter.com/ZKyZMF9xdd — David Morton (@Davidmorton01) October 17, 2020 × 🎙Pep’s answer re Sergio Aguero 🇦🇷/Sian Massey-Ellis incident at Man City this evening. “Come on guys. Sergio is the nicest person I ever met in my life. Look for problems in other situations not in this one.” #MCFC #MCIARS #Aguero pic.twitter.com/QwS7lY3k8d — RouteOneFootball (@Route1futbol) October 17, 2020 × Sergio Aguero, one of the greatest strikers in PL history, did this today. Commentators didn’t care to mention it, most fans didn’t notice it, others made sexist jokes, and I don't see @premierleague and @fa take any action. How is this tolerated in 2020? pic.twitter.com/zLsF0ppmvf — Rupin Kale (@Vegansportlover) October 17, 2020 × For me, looks like he’s mouthed off at her, realised he’s wrong then put his arm round her in apology, and she’s tapped him back to acknowledge that — Dave King (@DaveKing1990) October 17, 2020 × Agree. Should have been sent off for that. Sorry. Big admirer of his but what he did was disrespectful. No excuses. Needs retrospective punishment. — WeegieBoard Stats 🟡🔴🔢👤 (@TheWeegieBoard) October 17, 2020 × Under rules introduced in 2016, players can be warned or sent off for touching match officials depending on the nature of incident. While players have been spotted putting their arms on match officials, referees usually take the context and intention before putting it down in their match report which goes to the FA. Massey had every right to send Aguero off had she found any malice in Aguero’s move and more importantly, she could have written it down in her match report. However, nothing of that sort is being reported. ALSO READ: Late blitz saves Man Utd blushes as VAR denies Liverpool But City's all-time record scorer went unpunished and in his post-match press conference, Guardiola told reporters: "Come on guys. Sergio is the nicest person I ever met in my life. "Look for problems in other situations, not in this one." Last year, Man City’s Bernardo Silva suffered a ban after one of his tweets, where he jokingly compared team-mate Benjamin Mendy to a cartoon character, was held racist by social media users before the Portuguese was punished by the FA.

Man City's Sergio Aguero criticised for putting arm around female match referee

Real Madrid and Barcelona will each head into the Clasico next weekend on the back of a defeat after La Liga's two title favourites were punished for slack performances on Saturday.

Zinedine Zidane made four substitutions at half-time but could not spark a lethargic Madrid into life as his team fell 1-0 at home to newly-promoted Cadiz.&nbsp;

Then two hours later on the opposite side of the city, Ronald Koeman tasted his first competitive loss as coach of Barcelona as they followed Madrid's example by being beaten 1-0 by Getafe at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez.

Madrid's was perhaps the more concerning display, the reigning champions managing just two shots on target against Cadiz, who could have scored more after Anthony Lozano's early strike.&nbsp;

But Barca were not much better, with Lionel Messi strangely quiet and the team failing to rebound after Jaime Mata's penalty gave Getafe the lead in the second half.

For Madrid, there was an injury concern too as Sergio Ramos spent the second half in the stands with ice strapped around his left knee.&nbsp;

Madrid said the injury was not serious but it puts in doubt Ramos' involvement in their first Champions League game against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday, as well the Clasico three days later.&nbsp;

"Hopefully it's minor, said Zidane. "Tomorrow we'll see what he has done."

A prolonged absence for Ramos would cap a deflating night for the champions, whose dreary display certainly hands an early boost to their title rivals.&nbsp;

Even if Barcelona were unable to capitalise, Atletico Madrid had earlier beaten Celta Vigo 2-0, with Luis Suarez opening the scoring at Balaidos.

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'No excuses' -</h2>

"There is no explanation," said Zidane. "If they scored two or three goals in the first half, we couldn't have complained. There are no excuses."

This is Cadiz's first season in the top flight in 14 years and their first victory over Real Madrid in 29. Their reward is second place in the table, denied top spot by their opponents only due to goal difference.&nbsp;

Isco, Luka Modric and Lucas Vazquez were the other three players to be hauled off by Zidane, who was reacting to a particularly poor display from his side in the first half.&nbsp;

Eder Militao, Casemiro, Fede Valverde and Marco Asensio came on while a surprised-looking Toni Kroos also departed in the second period, replaced by Luka Jovic.&nbsp;

But Cadiz could have been three up in the first quarter of an hour as Ramos prevented Alvaro Negredo's finish from rolling in before Negredo created the opener.&nbsp;

His cushioned header put through Lozano, who skipped beyond Madrid's sleepy defence and poked over the onrushing Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;

Madrid might have equalised in the second half as Vinicius Junior headed wide of an open goal and Karim Benzema rattled the crossbar with a long-range shot. But Cadiz were not overly troubled.&nbsp;

Getafe were never really hanging on either, even if Barcelona went close to an equaliser, Messi hitting the post and then driving a loose ball wide in injury-time. Antoine Griezmann also ballooned over when put through in the first half.&nbsp;

Getafe's Cucho Hernandez also hit the bar after a clumsy challenge from Frenkie de Jong on Djene Dakonham gave Mata his chance.

Earlier, Suarez partnered Diego Costa for the first time and scored as Atletico Madrid beat struggling Celta Vigo.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Like the mix' -</h2>

But the Suarez-Costa combination came to an early end as Costa was forced off injured in the second half.&nbsp;

"I liked the mix of the two," said Diego Simeone. "Their characteristics mean they can play together. They give us strength and presence and personality in the penalty area.&nbsp;It's one of the options the team has."

Sitting in the stands, Costa was seen with his face in his hands and he seems likely now to miss Atletico's Champions League opener at Bayern Munich on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Suarez had earlier finished off a sweeping move down the left before Yannick Carrasco made sure of the victory in injury-time, heading in after Joao Felix's effort came back off the crossbar.

There was also a debut for Lucas Torreira, the Uruguayan signed on loan from Arsenal, who was energetic and tidy in central midfield, despite feeling some cramp late on.

Atletico climb to fourth, two points behind Real Madrid and one ahead of Barcelona. Celta, meanwhile, have managed only one win from their first six games and sit 13th.&nbsp;

Real Madrid and Barcelona will each head into the Clasico next weekend on the back of a defeat after La Liga's two title favourites were punished for slack performances on Saturday.

Real Madrid and Barcelona will each head into the Clasico next weekend on the back of a defeat after La Liga's two title favourites were punished for slack performances on Saturday. Zinedine Zidane made four substitutions at half-time but could not spark a lethargic Madrid into life as his team fell 1-0 at home to newly-promoted Cadiz. Then two hours later on the opposite side of the city, Ronald Koeman tasted his first competitive loss as coach of Barcelona as they followed Madrid's example by being beaten 1-0 by Getafe at the Coliseum Alfonso Perez. Madrid's was perhaps the more concerning display, the reigning champions managing just two shots on target against Cadiz, who could have scored more after Anthony Lozano's early strike. But Barca were not much better, with Lionel Messi strangely quiet and the team failing to rebound after Jaime Mata's penalty gave Getafe the lead in the second half. For Madrid, there was an injury concern too as Sergio Ramos spent the second half in the stands with ice strapped around his left knee. Madrid said the injury was not serious but it puts in doubt Ramos' involvement in their first Champions League game against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday, as well the Clasico three days later. "Hopefully it's minor, said Zidane. "Tomorrow we'll see what he has done." A prolonged absence for Ramos would cap a deflating night for the champions, whose dreary display certainly hands an early boost to their title rivals. Even if Barcelona were unable to capitalise, Atletico Madrid had earlier beaten Celta Vigo 2-0, with Luis Suarez opening the scoring at Balaidos. - 'No excuses' - "There is no explanation," said Zidane. "If they scored two or three goals in the first half, we couldn't have complained. There are no excuses." This is Cadiz's first season in the top flight in 14 years and their first victory over Real Madrid in 29. Their reward is second place in the table, denied top spot by their opponents only due to goal difference. Isco, Luka Modric and Lucas Vazquez were the other three players to be hauled off by Zidane, who was reacting to a particularly poor display from his side in the first half. Eder Militao, Casemiro, Fede Valverde and Marco Asensio came on while a surprised-looking Toni Kroos also departed in the second period, replaced by Luka Jovic. But Cadiz could have been three up in the first quarter of an hour as Ramos prevented Alvaro Negredo's finish from rolling in before Negredo created the opener. His cushioned header put through Lozano, who skipped beyond Madrid's sleepy defence and poked over the onrushing Thibaut Courtois. Madrid might have equalised in the second half as Vinicius Junior headed wide of an open goal and Karim Benzema rattled the crossbar with a long-range shot. But Cadiz were not overly troubled. Getafe were never really hanging on either, even if Barcelona went close to an equaliser, Messi hitting the post and then driving a loose ball wide in injury-time. Antoine Griezmann also ballooned over when put through in the first half. Getafe's Cucho Hernandez also hit the bar after a clumsy challenge from Frenkie de Jong on Djene Dakonham gave Mata his chance. Earlier, Suarez partnered Diego Costa for the first time and scored as Atletico Madrid beat struggling Celta Vigo. - 'Like the mix' - But the Suarez-Costa combination came to an early end as Costa was forced off injured in the second half. "I liked the mix of the two," said Diego Simeone. "Their characteristics mean they can play together. They give us strength and presence and personality in the penalty area. It's one of the options the team has." Sitting in the stands, Costa was seen with his face in his hands and he seems likely now to miss Atletico's Champions League opener at Bayern Munich on Wednesday. Suarez had earlier finished off a sweeping move down the left before Yannick Carrasco made sure of the victory in injury-time, heading in after Joao Felix's effort came back off the crossbar. There was also a debut for Lucas Torreira, the Uruguayan signed on loan from Arsenal, who was energetic and tidy in central midfield, despite feeling some cramp late on. Atletico climb to fourth, two points behind Real Madrid and one ahead of Barcelona. Celta, meanwhile, have managed only one win from their first six games and sit 13th.

Barcelona, Real Madrid both lose ahead of Clasico

Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Thursday said it had charged a man in connection with the death of Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala in a light aircraft crash last year.

"The UK Civil Aviation Authority has commenced a prosecution of David Henderson for offences associated with the fatal light aircraft accident over the English Channel in January 2019," said CAA director Richard Stephenson in a statement published on the regulator's website.

"It will be inappropriate for the CAA to say anything further until the case is concluded."

Henderson, 66, appeared at Cardiff Magistrates' Court on September 28 and was bailed to appear at Cardiff Crown Court on October 26.

Sala's mother, Mercedes Taffarel, welcomed the news, but was "disappointed that it has today resulted in what may be a further significant delay to the inquest into Emiliano's death," according to her legal firm &nbsp;Hickman and Rose.

"His mother remains desperate to know the full truth about how this could have been allowed to happen, and urges the CAA to proceed with its criminal prosecution as swiftly as possible, so an inquest can be held to establish this, and that similar deaths are prevented," said Daniel Machover from Hickman and Rose.

Sala, 28, died when the plane carrying him and pilot David Ibbotson came down in the Channel on January 21, just days after he had joined Cardiff City from Nantes.

He had been Cardiff's record signing after a fee of £15 million ($19 million) was agreed with Nantes during the January transfer window.

After travelling to Cardiff to complete the deal, Sala returned to France to collect belongings and bid farewell to his teammates.

It was on his return to the Welsh capital to take part in his first training session that the tragedy occurred.

Initial search operations for the player and pilot were suspended in the days after the single-engine Piper Malibu plane went missing.

However, a crowdfunding effort supported by thousands of donations, including from football stars such as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, helped launch a private search.

That specialised search saw Sala's body recovered from the wreckage in February but Ibbotson's body has not been found.

Two months after Sala's body was discovered, his father Horacio Sala died of a heart attack in Argentina.

British air accident investigators in March concluded Ibbotson was not licensed to fly the plane or at night, and that he lost control and flew too fast as he tried to avoid bad weather.

The Air Accidents Investigation Branch said both the pilot and Sala were affected by carbon monoxide poisoning before the crash.

Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Thursday said it had charged a man in connection with the death of Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala in a light aircraft crash last year.

Britain's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Thursday said it had charged a man in connection with the death of Argentine footballer Emiliano Sala in a light aircraft crash last year. "The UK Civil Aviation Authority has commenced a prosecution of David Henderson for offences associated with the fatal light aircraft accident over the English Channel in January 2019," said CAA director Richard Stephenson in a statement published on the regulator's website. "It will be inappropriate for the CAA to say anything further until the case is concluded." Henderson, 66, appeared at Cardiff Magistrates' Court on September 28 and was bailed to appear at Cardiff Crown Court on October 26. Sala's mother, Mercedes Taffarel, welcomed the news, but was "disappointed that it has today resulted in what may be a further significant delay to the inquest into Emiliano's death," according to her legal firm Hickman and Rose. "His mother remains desperate to know the full truth about how this could have been allowed to happen, and urges the CAA to proceed with its criminal prosecution as swiftly as possible, so an inquest can be held to establish this, and that similar deaths are prevented," said Daniel Machover from Hickman and Rose. Sala, 28, died when the plane carrying him and pilot David Ibbotson came down in the Channel on January 21, just days after he had joined Cardiff City from Nantes. He had been Cardiff's record signing after a fee of £15 million ($19 million) was agreed with Nantes during the January transfer window. After travelling to Cardiff to complete the deal, Sala returned to France to collect belongings and bid farewell to his teammates. It was on his return to the Welsh capital to take part in his first training session that the tragedy occurred. Initial search operations for the player and pilot were suspended in the days after the single-engine Piper Malibu plane went missing. However, a crowdfunding effort supported by thousands of donations, including from football stars such as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, helped launch a private search. That specialised search saw Sala's body recovered from the wreckage in February but Ibbotson's body has not been found. Two months after Sala's body was discovered, his father Horacio Sala died of a heart attack in Argentina. British air accident investigators in March concluded Ibbotson was not licensed to fly the plane or at night, and that he lost control and flew too fast as he tried to avoid bad weather. The Air Accidents Investigation Branch said both the pilot and Sala were affected by carbon monoxide poisoning before the crash.

Man charged over plane death of footballer Sala

Jurgen Klopp says football can help bring people together in tough times as Liverpool gear up to face Everton on Saturday in a city placed under tough coronavirus rules.

Klopp's champions travel to face Carlo Ancelotti's Premier League leaders for a second Merseyside derby behind closed doors in four months.

Liverpool has been placed under the "very high" alert level of the British government's new three-tier system to check the spread of Covid-19.

Under the strict rules many pubs and bars are closed and people are not allowed to socialise with anybody beyond those they live with.

The Liverpool squad itself has been hit in recent weeks, with Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara testing positive.

"I like to think that here football is always a massive point in this city," said Klopp. "I think months ago we discussed 'is football really necessary, does football play a role in society?'

"Obviously from a subjective point of view I was pretty sure it does.

"Usually when bad things happen, this city comes really together and tries to make the best of it. That is what we try from a football point of view for sure.&nbsp;

"I think if we played Man City now on the weekend it would have the same importance, it's just football is an important thing.

"It's just now because we are both clubs from the city, the whole city is united and will watch one football game, not two."

Jurgen Klopp says football can help bring people together in tough times as Liverpool gear up to face Everton on Saturday in a city placed under tough coronavirus rules.

Jurgen Klopp says football can help bring people together in tough times as Liverpool gear up to face Everton on Saturday in a city placed under tough coronavirus rules. Klopp's champions travel to face Carlo Ancelotti's Premier League leaders for a second Merseyside derby behind closed doors in four months. Liverpool has been placed under the "very high" alert level of the British government's new three-tier system to check the spread of Covid-19. Under the strict rules many pubs and bars are closed and people are not allowed to socialise with anybody beyond those they live with. The Liverpool squad itself has been hit in recent weeks, with Sadio Mane and Thiago Alcantara testing positive. "I like to think that here football is always a massive point in this city," said Klopp. "I think months ago we discussed 'is football really necessary, does football play a role in society?' "Obviously from a subjective point of view I was pretty sure it does. "Usually when bad things happen, this city comes really together and tries to make the best of it. That is what we try from a football point of view for sure. "I think if we played Man City now on the weekend it would have the same importance, it's just football is an important thing. "It's just now because we are both clubs from the city, the whole city is united and will watch one football game, not two."

Klopp hopes derby unites virus-hit Liverpool

Gareth Bale is expected to make his second Tottenham debut against West Ham on Sunday, but Jose Mourinho claims even the Welsh star's place is not guaranteed as he revels in the squad depth at his disposal.

Bale has returned to north London on a season-long loan from Real Madrid after seven years of highs and lows since joining the Spanish giants for a then world-record fee.

He scored in two Champions League finals as Madrid won the competition four times in his first five seasons.

But Bale's performances also attracted plenty of criticism, while he struggled with injuries and the adaptation to life in Spain.

Injury has also delayed his Tottenham return on the field, but the familiar surroundings have made the 31-year-old more relaxed after his Madrid misery and he has been pictured in the stands supporting his new team-mates.

Mourinho said on Friday that Sergio Reguilon, who also moved from Madrid to Spurs last month, commented that Bale looks a "different guy" from the shy figure in the Spanish capital.

But questions remain over whether he can emulate the success of his first spell with Tottenham, when he developed into one of the world's best.

In the final season before his big move, Bale scored 26 goals but it still was not enough to secure a place in the Champions League as Andre Villas-Boas's side finished fifth.

During his time in Spain, Spurs became Champions League regulars, reaching the final for the first time in 2019.

This season is the first in five years Tottenham are not in Europe's top club competition, but a Champions League return is the least they expect after bringing back Bale to form a potentially thrilling front three alongside Harry Kane and Son Heung-min.

Kane and Son have combined spectacularly to thrash Manchester United 6-1 and Southampton 5-2 already this season.

Injuries to both hampered Spurs' chances of making the top four last season, but Mourinho is confident he now has the squad to challenge on multiple fronts.

&nbsp;

<h2>- Winning mentality -</h2>

&nbsp;

Despite the club's rise in recent years, Tottenham have still not won a trophy since 2008.

"We have a squad where every player has to fight a lot and play very well to deserve a place in the team," said Mourinho.

"The squad is so good, so strong. We have so many options that I refuse to say this player is a first choice.

"I can feel even in the players this feeling I love. They are happy but they are worried.&nbsp;

"They are happy that the squad is good, that people are coming to make the squad better. But at the same time they are worried about themselves, 'am I going to play or not going to play?' This is the kind of feeling you have in the top teams and we are having that now."

Bale has plenty of experience of those demands from his time at Madrid, which is regarded as bittersweet at best despite winning 13 trophies.

"By going to Madrid, winning trophies and going far with the national team I feel like I have that winning mentality of how to win trophies," Bale said on his return.

"You don't realise it until you're there and in those situations in finals, knowing how to deal with the situation, the nerves, the pressure.

"That all goes with experience, so hopefully I can bring that to the dressing room, bring a bit more belief to everybody that we can win a trophy.

"The target is to do that this season. Not to just win one but to be fighting on every front possible."

Gareth Bale is expected to make his second Tottenham debut against West Ham on Sunday, but Jose Mourinho claims even the Welsh star's place is not guaranteed as he revels in the squad depth at his disposal.

Gareth Bale is expected to make his second Tottenham debut against West Ham on Sunday, but Jose Mourinho claims even the Welsh star's place is not guaranteed as he revels in the squad depth at his disposal. Bale has returned to north London on a season-long loan from Real Madrid after seven years of highs and lows since joining the Spanish giants for a then world-record fee. He scored in two Champions League finals as Madrid won the competition four times in his first five seasons. But Bale's performances also attracted plenty of criticism, while he struggled with injuries and the adaptation to life in Spain. Injury has also delayed his Tottenham return on the field, but the familiar surroundings have made the 31-year-old more relaxed after his Madrid misery and he has been pictured in the stands supporting his new team-mates. Mourinho said on Friday that Sergio Reguilon, who also moved from Madrid to Spurs last month, commented that Bale looks a "different guy" from the shy figure in the Spanish capital. But questions remain over whether he can emulate the success of his first spell with Tottenham, when he developed into one of the world's best. In the final season before his big move, Bale scored 26 goals but it still was not enough to secure a place in the Champions League as Andre Villas-Boas's side finished fifth. During his time in Spain, Spurs became Champions League regulars, reaching the final for the first time in 2019. This season is the first in five years Tottenham are not in Europe's top club competition, but a Champions League return is the least they expect after bringing back Bale to form a potentially thrilling front three alongside Harry Kane and Son Heung-min. Kane and Son have combined spectacularly to thrash Manchester United 6-1 and Southampton 5-2 already this season. Injuries to both hampered Spurs' chances of making the top four last season, but Mourinho is confident he now has the squad to challenge on multiple fronts. - Winning mentality - Despite the club's rise in recent years, Tottenham have still not won a trophy since 2008. "We have a squad where every player has to fight a lot and play very well to deserve a place in the team," said Mourinho. "The squad is so good, so strong. We have so many options that I refuse to say this player is a first choice. "I can feel even in the players this feeling I love. They are happy but they are worried. "They are happy that the squad is good, that people are coming to make the squad better. But at the same time they are worried about themselves, 'am I going to play or not going to play?' This is the kind of feeling you have in the top teams and we are having that now." Bale has plenty of experience of those demands from his time at Madrid, which is regarded as bittersweet at best despite winning 13 trophies. "By going to Madrid, winning trophies and going far with the national team I feel like I have that winning mentality of how to win trophies," Bale said on his return. "You don't realise it until you're there and in those situations in finals, knowing how to deal with the situation, the nerves, the pressure. "That all goes with experience, so hopefully I can bring that to the dressing room, bring a bit more belief to everybody that we can win a trophy. "The target is to do that this season. Not to just win one but to be fighting on every front possible."

Bale return adds stardust as Mourinho targets trophies for Spurs

Premier League clubs on Wednesday rejected plans put forward by Liverpool and Manchester United for radical changes to the league’s structures and finances and said they would conduct their own review of the game.

The “Project Big Picture” proposals would have seen an increase in funds for the 72 clubs in the Football League (EFL) but also include special voting rights for the biggest clubs in the Premier League and a reduction of teams in the top flight from 20 to 18.

The plan has been fronted by EFL chairman Rick Parry and would have included a 250 million-pound ($325.85 million) bail-out for his clubs, who face acute financial issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

But at a meeting on Wednesday of all 20 Premier League clubs, the plans were rejected with a separate, broader-based review by the entire league initiated and a more limited bail-out for lower division clubs.

“All 20 Premier League clubs today unanimously agreed that Project Big Picture will not be endorsed or pursued by the Premier League, or The FA,” the league said in a statement.

“Further, Premier League Shareholders agreed to work together as a 20-club collective on a strategic plan for the future structures and financing of English football, consulting with all stakeholders to ensure a vibrant, competitive and sustainable football pyramid.”

The process will include the FA, the UK government and the EFL, added the statement.

<h2>RESCUE PACKAGE</h2>

The Premier League also said it had agreed to offer a rescue package to League One and League Two (third and fourth tier) clubs.

“This offer will consist of grants and interest-free loans totalling a further 50 million pounds on top of the £27.2m solidarity payments already advanced to League One and League Two this year, making a total of 77.2 million pounds,” the statement said.

“Discussions will also continue with the EFL regarding Championship clubs’ financial needs. This addresses Government concerns about lower league clubs’ financial fragility.”

The UK government’s Culture Minister Oliver Dowden, who is responsible for sport, has been urging the wealthier clubs to help out the lower league teams and said the offer was a “good start”.

“I urge them to work together and stay focused on helping clubs through the crisis,” he said.

Despite the huge attention focused on the proposals, which were leaked on Sunday, neither of the two American owners, Liverpool’s John W Henry or Manchester United’s Joel Glazer, took part in the online meeting, leaving their executives to represent them.

Premier League CEO Richard Masters said the meeting had been “candid, constructive, positive in the end”.

Although FA chairman Greg Clarke said on Tuesday that the Project instigators had talked about a possible breakaway from the Premier League, Masters said he had heard no such threats.

“I don’t think anybody has been talking about breaking away. So I want to make that clear,” he said.

Feelings have been running high among owners and officials from the Premier League’s smaller clubs, some of whom believe the top teams tried to railroad them.

“Whilst there has been a lot of things said and done, a lot of speculation over the last four days, I don’t think it’s irreparably damaged the Premier League,” Masters said.

The EFL, whose clubs had been largely in support of Project Big Picture given the promise of increased funds including a 250 million-pound rescue fund said it would meet with all its 72 clubs on Thursday to discuss the new bail-out offer.

“As we have maintained across the past 72 hours, there is a significant issue facing the English footballing Pyramid and therefore it is encouraging that there is an acknowledgment that a review of the current status quo is required,” the EFL said in a statement.

“The EFL welcomes the opportunity to contribute to any wider debate with colleagues across the game as we seek to finally address impossible economic pressures and deliver on the objective of having a sustainable EFL in the long-term.”

Premier League clubs on Wednesday rejected plans put forward by Liverpool and Manchester United for radical changes to the league’s structures and finances and said they would conduct their own review of the game.

Premier League clubs on Wednesday rejected plans put forward by Liverpool and Manchester United for radical changes to the league’s structures and finances and said they would conduct their own review of the game. The “Project Big Picture” proposals would have seen an increase in funds for the 72 clubs in the Football League (EFL) but also include special voting rights for the biggest clubs in the Premier League and a reduction of teams in the top flight from 20 to 18. The plan has been fronted by EFL chairman Rick Parry and would have included a 250 million-pound ($325.85 million) bail-out for his clubs, who face acute financial issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But at a meeting on Wednesday of all 20 Premier League clubs, the plans were rejected with a separate, broader-based review by the entire league initiated and a more limited bail-out for lower division clubs. “All 20 Premier League clubs today unanimously agreed that Project Big Picture will not be endorsed or pursued by the Premier League, or The FA,” the league said in a statement. “Further, Premier League Shareholders agreed to work together as a 20-club collective on a strategic plan for the future structures and financing of English football, consulting with all stakeholders to ensure a vibrant, competitive and sustainable football pyramid.” The process will include the FA, the UK government and the EFL, added the statement. RESCUE PACKAGE The Premier League also said it had agreed to offer a rescue package to League One and League Two (third and fourth tier) clubs. “This offer will consist of grants and interest-free loans totalling a further 50 million pounds on top of the £27.2m solidarity payments already advanced to League One and League Two this year, making a total of 77.2 million pounds,” the statement said. “Discussions will also continue with the EFL regarding Championship clubs’ financial needs. This addresses Government concerns about lower league clubs’ financial fragility.” The UK government’s Culture Minister Oliver Dowden, who is responsible for sport, has been urging the wealthier clubs to help out the lower league teams and said the offer was a “good start”. “I urge them to work together and stay focused on helping clubs through the crisis,” he said. Despite the huge attention focused on the proposals, which were leaked on Sunday, neither of the two American owners, Liverpool’s John W Henry or Manchester United’s Joel Glazer, took part in the online meeting, leaving their executives to represent them. Premier League CEO Richard Masters said the meeting had been “candid, constructive, positive in the end”. Although FA chairman Greg Clarke said on Tuesday that the Project instigators had talked about a possible breakaway from the Premier League, Masters said he had heard no such threats. “I don’t think anybody has been talking about breaking away. So I want to make that clear,” he said. Feelings have been running high among owners and officials from the Premier League’s smaller clubs, some of whom believe the top teams tried to railroad them. “Whilst there has been a lot of things said and done, a lot of speculation over the last four days, I don’t think it’s irreparably damaged the Premier League,” Masters said. The EFL, whose clubs had been largely in support of Project Big Picture given the promise of increased funds including a 250 million-pound rescue fund said it would meet with all its 72 clubs on Thursday to discuss the new bail-out offer. “As we have maintained across the past 72 hours, there is a significant issue facing the English footballing Pyramid and therefore it is encouraging that there is an acknowledgment that a review of the current status quo is required,” the EFL said in a statement. “The EFL welcomes the opportunity to contribute to any wider debate with colleagues across the game as we seek to finally address impossible economic pressures and deliver on the objective of having a sustainable EFL in the long-term.”

Premier League clubs reject 'Project Big Picture'

Liverpool face Premier League pacesetters Everton this weekend determined to prove their 7-2 drubbing by Aston Villa was just a bizarre blip while misfiring Manchester United could slip into the relegation zone.

The Merseyside derby kicks off the Premier League action on Saturday after the international break, with Manchester City's match against Arsenal also catching the eye.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be desperate to turn around Manchester United's fortunes at Newcastle after their 6-1 humbling by Tottenham.

AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the action.

&nbsp;

<h2>Can Everton end Liverpool hoodoo?</h2>

Everton have been rivals to Liverpool in name only for the past decade, without a win against their near-neighbours since 2010.

But the Goodison Park club are top of the table with four wins out of four and Jurgen Klopp will not be relishing the short trip across Stanley Park.

The champions are smarting from their pummelling at Villa, which followed impressive wins against Chelsea and Arsenal, and it will be the defence that is giving the German boss his biggest headache.

Liverpool have conceded 11 goals in the Premier League so far -- only West Brom have conceded more (13) -- and they are coming up against the Premier League's joint top-scorer in Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has six goals.

The forward, who scored for England on his debut last week, is quick to praise fellow attackers James Rodriguez and Richarlison.

"I demand high standards from myself every day," he told Everton TV. "I continue to work hard, like I always have, to get into this position. I am just grateful the quality behind me is producing the opportunities for me to score the goals."

&nbsp;

<h2>Man Utd must stop rot</h2>

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer described his side's 6-1 defeat at home to Tottenham as the "worst day" in his career as a Manchester United player or manager.

United are just three points above the relegation zone after shipping 11 goals in their three matches so far and their confidence looks to be in tatters.

The question until recently was who would partner Harry Maguire at the back but the world's most expensive defender is himself enduring a horror season on and off the pitch.

The central defender's latest low point was his red card during England's 1-0 defeat to Denmark in the Nations League on Wednesday.

Left-back Luke Shaw, whose place is under threat from the arrival of Alex Telles, urged United to tighten up.

"We need to be clinical and, especially at the back, we need to be more solid," Shaw said. "Not just as a backline but throughout the whole team, a bit more defensively solid and a bit more compact."

&nbsp;

<h2>Spurs' feelgood factor</h2>

Jose Mourinho's Tottenham started the season with a disappointing Premier League defeat against Everton but they are unbeaten since then despite a hectic schedule leading up to the international break.

Their seismic victory at Old Trafford brought an end to a sequence of eight matches in 22 days as Spurs reached the League Cup quarter-finals and qualified for the Europa League group stage.

Lucas Moura says Tottenham are keen to pick up where they left off.

"We need to start the new month in the same way, with the same fighting spirit," he said. "I'm very positive. I think we are building a very strong squad and we can dream of big things this season, that's our objective."

&nbsp;

<h2>Villa meet Leicester in summit clash</h2>

When Aston Villa escaped relegation on the final day of the 2019/20 season, few would have expected them to be second in the table, with three wins out of three, in mid-October.

Defender Ezri Konsa is confident they can maintain that flying start against Leicester, who are just behind Villa on goal difference.

"It's been a great start for us," he said. "We've carried on our form from last season, and we need to keep going and keep the focus on ourselves.

"The chemistry in the squad has gone up another level and we keep building on that in training."

&nbsp;

Fixtures

Saturday

Everton v Liverpool (1130 GMT), Chelsea v Southampton (1400), Manchester City v Arsenal (1630), Newcastle v Manchester United (1900)

Sunday

Sheffield United v Fulham (1100), Crystal Palace v Brighton (1300), Tottenham v West Ham (1530), Leicester v Aston Villa (1815)

Monday

West Brom v Burnley (1630), Leeds v Wolves (1900)

Liverpool face Premier League pacesetters Everton this weekend determined to prove their 7-2 drubbing by Aston Villa was just a bizarre blip while misfiring Manchester United could slip into the relegation zone.

Liverpool face Premier League pacesetters Everton this weekend determined to prove their 7-2 drubbing by Aston Villa was just a bizarre blip while misfiring Manchester United could slip into the relegation zone. The Merseyside derby kicks off the Premier League action on Saturday after the international break, with Manchester City's match against Arsenal also catching the eye. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be desperate to turn around Manchester United's fortunes at Newcastle after their 6-1 humbling by Tottenham. AFP Sport looks at some of the main talking points ahead of the action. Can Everton end Liverpool hoodoo? Everton have been rivals to Liverpool in name only for the past decade, without a win against their near-neighbours since 2010. But the Goodison Park club are top of the table with four wins out of four and Jurgen Klopp will not be relishing the short trip across Stanley Park. The champions are smarting from their pummelling at Villa, which followed impressive wins against Chelsea and Arsenal, and it will be the defence that is giving the German boss his biggest headache. Liverpool have conceded 11 goals in the Premier League so far -- only West Brom have conceded more (13) -- and they are coming up against the Premier League's joint top-scorer in Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has six goals. The forward, who scored for England on his debut last week, is quick to praise fellow attackers James Rodriguez and Richarlison. "I demand high standards from myself every day," he told Everton TV. "I continue to work hard, like I always have, to get into this position. I am just grateful the quality behind me is producing the opportunities for me to score the goals." Man Utd must stop rot Ole Gunnar Solskjaer described his side's 6-1 defeat at home to Tottenham as the "worst day" in his career as a Manchester United player or manager. United are just three points above the relegation zone after shipping 11 goals in their three matches so far and their confidence looks to be in tatters. The question until recently was who would partner Harry Maguire at the back but the world's most expensive defender is himself enduring a horror season on and off the pitch. The central defender's latest low point was his red card during England's 1-0 defeat to Denmark in the Nations League on Wednesday. Left-back Luke Shaw, whose place is under threat from the arrival of Alex Telles, urged United to tighten up. "We need to be clinical and, especially at the back, we need to be more solid," Shaw said. "Not just as a backline but throughout the whole team, a bit more defensively solid and a bit more compact." Spurs' feelgood factor Jose Mourinho's Tottenham started the season with a disappointing Premier League defeat against Everton but they are unbeaten since then despite a hectic schedule leading up to the international break. Their seismic victory at Old Trafford brought an end to a sequence of eight matches in 22 days as Spurs reached the League Cup quarter-finals and qualified for the Europa League group stage. Lucas Moura says Tottenham are keen to pick up where they left off. "We need to start the new month in the same way, with the same fighting spirit," he said. "I'm very positive. I think we are building a very strong squad and we can dream of big things this season, that's our objective." Villa meet Leicester in summit clash When Aston Villa escaped relegation on the final day of the 2019/20 season, few would have expected them to be second in the table, with three wins out of three, in mid-October. Defender Ezri Konsa is confident they can maintain that flying start against Leicester, who are just behind Villa on goal difference. "It's been a great start for us," he said. "We've carried on our form from last season, and we need to keep going and keep the focus on ourselves. "The chemistry in the squad has gone up another level and we keep building on that in training." Fixtures Saturday Everton v Liverpool (1130 GMT), Chelsea v Southampton (1400), Manchester City v Arsenal (1630), Newcastle v Manchester United (1900) Sunday Sheffield United v Fulham (1100), Crystal Palace v Brighton (1300), Tottenham v West Ham (1530), Leicester v Aston Villa (1815) Monday West Brom v Burnley (1630), Leeds v Wolves (1900)

Liverpool face Everton threat as Man Utd bid to stop the rot

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury.

Messi played the full 90 minutes in Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Bolivia during the international break, the second of which was played at altitude in La Paz.

The Barca captain has not missed a single minute for his club since football resumed in June following the coronavirus shutdown.

However, with seven games in the space of 21 days awaiting Barca, coach Ronald Koeman could elect to give Messi a breather before the start of the team's Champions League campaign. &nbsp;

Barca host Hungarian side Ferencvaros on Tuesday and then face sworn enemies Real Madrid four days later behind closed doors at the Camp Nou.

The Catalan club head to Italy for a Champions League clash with Juventus on October 28 before games against Alaves and Real Betis either side of the visit of Dynamo Kiev.

Leaders Madrid are unbeaten in La Liga since March, winning 13 of their past 15 games, and welcome Cadiz to the capital this weekend.

Zinedine Zidane could also opt to rotate some players but Thibaut Courtois, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior are in line to play after resting while others were away on international duty.

Courtois left the Belgium squad with a back injury and while he is fit to return, compatriot Hazard is not yet ready for action.

The 29-year-old has yet to feature this season having picked up a muscle injury as he worked his way back from an ankle problem.

He is also expected to miss next weekend's Clasico, but Courtois believes Hazard will come good after scoring just once in an injury-plagued first season in Spain.

"I have no doubt we are going to see the best of Hazard," Courtois told Cadena Ser radio.

"He is more desperate than anyone to show it. He's coming along well and&nbsp; hopefully soon he can prove it.

He added: "I am sure that in no time he will explode and will give many joys to the team."

Atletico Madrid visit Celta Vigo in their first game since the sale of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey to Arsenal on transfer deadline day.

Partey made 188 appearances for the Atletico and was part of the sides that reached the 2016 Champions League final and beat Arsenal on the way to winning the Europa League in 2018.

&nbsp;

<h2>One to watch:&nbsp;Oussama Idrissi</h2>

The Dutch-born Morocco international could make his Sevilla debut at Granada after joining the club on a five-year deal from AZ Alkmaar.

Idrissi, 24, scored 13 goals in 25 games in the Eredivisie last season before it was declared over in March due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

Julen Lopetegui's Europa League winners are one of four undefeated teams in La Liga this term, with seven points from their first three matches.

<h2>Key stats</h2>

12 - goals scored by Sergio Ramos since the start of the 2019/20 season, more than any other defender in Europe's top five leagues.

250 - goals scored by Karim Benzema for Real Madrid. The Frenchman is only the fifth player to reach the mark in club history

&nbsp;

<h2>Fixtures</h2>

Saturday (all times GMT)

Granada v Sevilla (1100), Celta Vigo v Atletico Madrid (1400), Real Madrid v Cadiz (1630), Getafe v Barcelona (1900)

Sunday

Eibar v Osasuna (1000), Athletic Bilbao v Levante (1200), Villarreal v Valencia (1400), Alaves v Elche (1630), Huesca v Real Valladolid (1630), Real Betis v Real Sociedad (1900)

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury.

Barcelona must weigh up the decision whether to rest Lionel Messi for Saturday's trip to Getafe ahead of a congested run of fixtures, while Real Madrid are still waiting on the return of Eden Hazard from injury. Messi played the full 90 minutes in Argentina's World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Bolivia during the international break, the second of which was played at altitude in La Paz. The Barca captain has not missed a single minute for his club since football resumed in June following the coronavirus shutdown. However, with seven games in the space of 21 days awaiting Barca, coach Ronald Koeman could elect to give Messi a breather before the start of the team's Champions League campaign. Barca host Hungarian side Ferencvaros on Tuesday and then face sworn enemies Real Madrid four days later behind closed doors at the Camp Nou. The Catalan club head to Italy for a Champions League clash with Juventus on October 28 before games against Alaves and Real Betis either side of the visit of Dynamo Kiev. Leaders Madrid are unbeaten in La Liga since March, winning 13 of their past 15 games, and welcome Cadiz to the capital this weekend. Zinedine Zidane could also opt to rotate some players but Thibaut Courtois, Karim Benzema and Vinicius Junior are in line to play after resting while others were away on international duty. Courtois left the Belgium squad with a back injury and while he is fit to return, compatriot Hazard is not yet ready for action. The 29-year-old has yet to feature this season having picked up a muscle injury as he worked his way back from an ankle problem. He is also expected to miss next weekend's Clasico, but Courtois believes Hazard will come good after scoring just once in an injury-plagued first season in Spain. "I have no doubt we are going to see the best of Hazard," Courtois told Cadena Ser radio. "He is more desperate than anyone to show it. He's coming along well and hopefully soon he can prove it. He added: "I am sure that in no time he will explode and will give many joys to the team." Atletico Madrid visit Celta Vigo in their first game since the sale of Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey to Arsenal on transfer deadline day. Partey made 188 appearances for the Atletico and was part of the sides that reached the 2016 Champions League final and beat Arsenal on the way to winning the Europa League in 2018. One to watch: Oussama Idrissi The Dutch-born Morocco international could make his Sevilla debut at Granada after joining the club on a five-year deal from AZ Alkmaar. Idrissi, 24, scored 13 goals in 25 games in the Eredivisie last season before it was declared over in March due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Julen Lopetegui's Europa League winners are one of four undefeated teams in La Liga this term, with seven points from their first three matches. Key stats 12 - goals scored by Sergio Ramos since the start of the 2019/20 season, more than any other defender in Europe's top five leagues. 250 - goals scored by Karim Benzema for Real Madrid. The Frenchman is only the fifth player to reach the mark in club history Fixtures Saturday (all times GMT) Granada v Sevilla (1100), Celta Vigo v Atletico Madrid (1400), Real Madrid v Cadiz (1630), Getafe v Barcelona (1900) Sunday Eibar v Osasuna (1000), Athletic Bilbao v Levante (1200), Villarreal v Valencia (1400), Alaves v Elche (1630), Huesca v Real Valladolid (1630), Real Betis v Real Sociedad (1900)

Barca ponder Messi rest as Madrid continue to wait on Hazard

Juventus megastar Cristiano Ronaldo may have breached the health rules when he returned to Italy after returning positive for COVID-19 in Portugal, Italy’s sports minister said.

The Portuguese forward flew back to Italy in a private jet on Wednesday and will undergo quarantine at home. Ronaldo tested positive for the dreaded virus on Monday.&nbsp;

Vincenzo Spadafora, the Italian sports minister, was asked if Ronaldo broke health rules by moving from Portugal to Italy despite testing positive for the coronavirus as he replied: “Yes, I think so, if there hadn’t been any specific authorisation from the health authority.”

Whereas Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said that no rules were broken in the process.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barca-ponder-messi-rest-as-madrid-continue-to-wait-on-hazard-335650" hreflang="en">Barca ponder Messi rest as Madrid continue to wait on Hazard</a>

“You must call the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Interior and have them explain what has been violated,” Agnelli said during a news conference.

The Italian giants on Wednesday said that Ronaldo had returned on a medical flight “authorised by the competent health authorities”. 
Ronaldo was forced to sit out of their Nations League match against Sweden on Wednesday after testing positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

While there are plenty of speculations surrounding Ronaldo’s availability in the UEFA Champions League match against Barcelona which is being hyped as the final showdown between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, UEFA has clearly stated that the Portuguese star must present a negative COVID-19 test at least seven days before the day of the match.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/enough-fooling-entire-world-cristiano-ronaldos-sister-katia-aveiro-rants-on-instagram-after-he-tests-positive-335432" hreflang="en">'Enough fooling entire world' Cristiano Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro rants on Instagram after he tests positive</a>

Recently, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/enough-fooling-entire-world-cristiano-ronaldos-sister-katia-aveiro-rants-on-instagram-after-he-tests-positive-335432">Ronaldo’s sister&nbsp;ranted about the COVID-19</a> as she said: "If Cristiano Ronaldo is the one who has to wake the world up, I have to say that this Portuguese really is an envoy from God. Thank you!

"I believe that, today, thousands of people who have come to believe so much in this pandemic, in the tests and the measures taken will, like me, see it is the biggest fraud I've seen since I was born.

"A phrase that I read today and that I stood up to applaud: 'Enough fooling the entire world'. Someone, open your eyes, please." 
&nbsp;

Juventus megastar Cristiano Ronaldo may have breached the health rules when he returned to Italy after returning positive for COVID-19 in Portugal, Italy’s sports minister said.

Juventus megastar Cristiano Ronaldo may have breached the health rules when he returned to Italy after returning positive for COVID-19 in Portugal, Italy’s sports minister said. The Portuguese forward flew back to Italy in a private jet on Wednesday and will undergo quarantine at home. Ronaldo tested positive for the dreaded virus on Monday. Vincenzo Spadafora, the Italian sports minister, was asked if Ronaldo broke health rules by moving from Portugal to Italy despite testing positive for the coronavirus as he replied: “Yes, I think so, if there hadn’t been any specific authorisation from the health authority.” Whereas Juventus president Andrea Agnelli said that no rules were broken in the process. ALSO READ: Barca ponder Messi rest as Madrid continue to wait on Hazard “You must call the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Interior and have them explain what has been violated,” Agnelli said during a news conference. The Italian giants on Wednesday said that Ronaldo had returned on a medical flight “authorised by the competent health authorities”. Ronaldo was forced to sit out of their Nations League match against Sweden on Wednesday after testing positive for COVID-19. While there are plenty of speculations surrounding Ronaldo’s availability in the UEFA Champions League match against Barcelona which is being hyped as the final showdown between Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, UEFA has clearly stated that the Portuguese star must present a negative COVID-19 test at least seven days before the day of the match. ALSO READ: 'Enough fooling entire world' Cristiano Ronaldo's sister Katia Aveiro rants on Instagram after he tests positive Recently, Ronaldo’s sister ranted about the COVID-19 as she said: "If Cristiano Ronaldo is the one who has to wake the world up, I have to say that this Portuguese really is an envoy from God. Thank you! "I believe that, today, thousands of people who have come to believe so much in this pandemic, in the tests and the measures taken will, like me, see it is the biggest fraud I've seen since I was born. "A phrase that I read today and that I stood up to applaud: 'Enough fooling the entire world'. Someone, open your eyes, please."

COVID-19 positive Cristiano Ronaldo may have broken health protocol: Italian sports minister

New proposals backed by Liverpool and Manchester United for wide-ranging reform of English football have been criticised by the UK government, Premier League and fans' groups.

The so-called "Project Big Picture" has been labelled a "power grab" by the Premier League's biggest and wealthiest clubs, taking advantage of the dire financial position of the English Football League (EFL) -- which comprises the three divisions directly beneath the top flight -- amid the coronavirus crisis.

But many in the EFL, including chairman Rick Parry, back the plan as a means of addressing the imbalance in resources between the top and bottom of the football pyramid.

AFP Sport looks at what "Project Big Picture" proposes and who could gain from it:

<h2>Competition reform</h2>

The principal difference on the field would be the reduction of the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams with the overall number of clubs in the top four English divisions shrinking from 92 to 90.

Only two teams would be automatically promoted to and relegated from the Premier League with third-bottom in the top tier joining third, fourth and fifth in the second-tier Championship for the traditional end-of-season play-offs.

The League Cup and season curtain-raiser, the Community Shield, would also be scrapped, providing more space in the calendar for lucrative pre-season tours and potentially more matches in European club competition for the biggest clubs.

<h2>Revenue sharing</h2>

The Premier League would provide an instant £250 million ($325 million) cash injection to the EFL to prevent clubs going bust at a time when they are without match-day revenue due to coronavirus restrictions.

A further £100 million would be provided to the English Football Association, which also has mounting coronavirus costs due to international games behind closed doors, notably to help women's football. &nbsp;

There is also more funding for the lower leagues in the long-term. In future, Premier League and EFL broadcast rights would be sold together and 25 percent distributed down the divisions.

<h2>What's the catch?</h2>

The principal objection to the plans is that the power will be concentrated in the hands of the "big six" - United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur.

At the moment, a majority of 14 from the 20 Premier League clubs is required for any significant decisions to be passed with each club having one vote.

Under the proposals, the "big six" and the other three longest-serving Premier League members - currently Everton, Southampton and West Ham United - would hold the balance of power with only six of those nine needed to vote in major rule changes.

That would include the power to approve or block takeovers of other clubs, for example the Saudi-backed deal for Newcastle United that recently fell through.

Moreover, each club could sell the rights of up to eight live matches a season direct to fans over their own channels. That would be far more lucrative for the bigger clubs with huge worldwide fanbases, but is likely to reduce collective TV deals, where the EFL's 25 percent share comes from.

Parachute payments for clubs relegated from the Premier League would also be abolished.

<h2>Who is backing it?</h2>

Parry, formerly the Liverpool chief executive, has been the most vocal senior figure supporting the plan after months of warning that EFL clubs face a £200 million black hole in their finances with games being held behind closed doors.

Despite being behind the proposals, Liverpool and United are yet to comment publicly. However, the plans have received considerable support from clubs throughout the EFL.

<h2>Who is against it?</h2>

A powerful alliance of the Premier League, government and supporters groups has warned about selling control over the game to a small band of clubs.

The Football Supporters Association described the plans on Tuesday as a "sugar-coated cyanide pill offered up by billionaire owners who do not understand or care about our football culture".

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the project was the "type of backroom dealing that undermines trust in football governance", while the Premier League warned some of the plans would have a "damaging impact on the whole game."

<h2>What comes next?</h2>

Even in the unlikely event that a majority of Premier League clubs backed the plans, they would not come into force until 2022/23.

However, with such strong opposition, these proposals are likely to just be the starting point for negotiations on how to balance the interests of the biggest clubs with protecting the football pyramid.

The most pressing need is that for a bailout of the EFL -- The chairman of fourth-tier London club Leyton Orient, Nigel Travis, has claimed some clubs will disappear within six weeks without financial support.

New proposals backed by Liverpool and Manchester United for wide-ranging reform of English football have been criticised by the UK government, Premier League and fans' groups.

New proposals backed by Liverpool and Manchester United for wide-ranging reform of English football have been criticised by the UK government, Premier League and fans' groups. The so-called "Project Big Picture" has been labelled a "power grab" by the Premier League's biggest and wealthiest clubs, taking advantage of the dire financial position of the English Football League (EFL) -- which comprises the three divisions directly beneath the top flight -- amid the coronavirus crisis. But many in the EFL, including chairman Rick Parry, back the plan as a means of addressing the imbalance in resources between the top and bottom of the football pyramid. AFP Sport looks at what "Project Big Picture" proposes and who could gain from it: Competition reform The principal difference on the field would be the reduction of the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams with the overall number of clubs in the top four English divisions shrinking from 92 to 90. Only two teams would be automatically promoted to and relegated from the Premier League with third-bottom in the top tier joining third, fourth and fifth in the second-tier Championship for the traditional end-of-season play-offs. The League Cup and season curtain-raiser, the Community Shield, would also be scrapped, providing more space in the calendar for lucrative pre-season tours and potentially more matches in European club competition for the biggest clubs. Revenue sharing The Premier League would provide an instant £250 million ($325 million) cash injection to the EFL to prevent clubs going bust at a time when they are without match-day revenue due to coronavirus restrictions. A further £100 million would be provided to the English Football Association, which also has mounting coronavirus costs due to international games behind closed doors, notably to help women's football. There is also more funding for the lower leagues in the long-term. In future, Premier League and EFL broadcast rights would be sold together and 25 percent distributed down the divisions. What's the catch? The principal objection to the plans is that the power will be concentrated in the hands of the "big six" - United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur. At the moment, a majority of 14 from the 20 Premier League clubs is required for any significant decisions to be passed with each club having one vote. Under the proposals, the "big six" and the other three longest-serving Premier League members - currently Everton, Southampton and West Ham United - would hold the balance of power with only six of those nine needed to vote in major rule changes. That would include the power to approve or block takeovers of other clubs, for example the Saudi-backed deal for Newcastle United that recently fell through. Moreover, each club could sell the rights of up to eight live matches a season direct to fans over their own channels. That would be far more lucrative for the bigger clubs with huge worldwide fanbases, but is likely to reduce collective TV deals, where the EFL's 25 percent share comes from. Parachute payments for clubs relegated from the Premier League would also be abolished. Who is backing it? Parry, formerly the Liverpool chief executive, has been the most vocal senior figure supporting the plan after months of warning that EFL clubs face a £200 million black hole in their finances with games being held behind closed doors. Despite being behind the proposals, Liverpool and United are yet to comment publicly. However, the plans have received considerable support from clubs throughout the EFL. Who is against it? A powerful alliance of the Premier League, government and supporters groups has warned about selling control over the game to a small band of clubs. The Football Supporters Association described the plans on Tuesday as a "sugar-coated cyanide pill offered up by billionaire owners who do not understand or care about our football culture". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the project was the "type of backroom dealing that undermines trust in football governance", while the Premier League warned some of the plans would have a "damaging impact on the whole game." What comes next? Even in the unlikely event that a majority of Premier League clubs backed the plans, they would not come into force until 2022/23. However, with such strong opposition, these proposals are likely to just be the starting point for negotiations on how to balance the interests of the biggest clubs with protecting the football pyramid. The most pressing need is that for a bailout of the EFL -- The chairman of fourth-tier London club Leyton Orient, Nigel Travis, has claimed some clubs will disappear within six weeks without financial support.

What is English football's 'Project Big Picture' and who stands to benefit?

Neymar scored a hat-trick to become the second highest scorer in Brazil's history as the Copa America champions won 4-2 away to 10-man Peru in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

The goals took Neymar to 64 international strikes, two more than Ronaldo but still well behind Pele's record of 77.

Elsewhere, Joaquin Correa scored the winner 11 minutes from time as Argentina labored to a 2-1 victory over Bolivia to maintain their 100% record after two matches.

Peru twice took the lead through Andre Carrillo and a heavily deflected strike from Renato Tapia, but two controversial Neymar penalties, an injury time third and a close range strike from Richarlison maintained the Selecao's winning start to qualifying for Qatar 2022.

Carrillo opened the scoring on six minutes with a dipping volley from 20 yards after latching onto Marquinhos's weak clearance.

Peru Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese then denied Firmino from point blank range after he seemed certain to tap home from Richarlison's cushioned header.

Brazil dominated the ball but Peru's pacey forwards looked dangerous on the counter-attack and visiting goalkeeper Weverton had to be alert to keep out a shot from Christofer Gonzales.

But Neymar sent Gallese the wrong way from the spot after Yoshimar Yotun was penalised for tugging his shirt in the box.

Out of nowhere, Tapia's speculative long-range strike took a wicked deflection off Rodrigo Caio and wrong-footed Weverton on 59 minutes.

The lead lasted only a few minutes before Richarlison touched a Firmino header from a corner over the line to restore parity.

The winner came seven minutes from time as Carlos Zambrano was harshly adjudged to have fouled Neymar.

Worse was still to come for Zambrano as he was sent off minutes later for a stray elbow that caught Richarlison and Neymar drilled home the final nail in Peru's coffin after Gallese spilled a shot from Everton Ribeiro.

<h2>- Farcical equaliser -</h2>

Lionel Scaloni's Argentina earned a second narrow victory in a row following Thursday's 1-0 win over Ecuador.

Marcelo Moreno Martins had given hosts Bolivia a deserved lead but Argentina scored a fortuitous equaliser through Lautaro Martinez.

Bolivia should have been ahead on six minutes when Argentina goalkeeper Franco Armani was caught off his line but Moreno Martins sent his header from an angle onto the roof of the net.

Moreno Martins made amends on 24 minutes as he rose between Argentina's center-backs to power home a header from eight yards after Alejandro Chumacero was allowed to run from halfway into the visitors' box before crossing from the left.

Argentina's equaliser came in comical fashion as Jose Carrasco tried to clear the ball out of his six yard box after cutting out Martinez's cross, but he shanked the ball off the forward's shin and past goalkeeper Carlos Lampe.

Lionel Messi, who had an otherwise quiet game, and Martinez then combined to tee up Correa to thrash home the winner.

<h2>- Ecuador work of art -</h2>

Ecuador totally dominated Uruguay in a 4-2 victory in Quito.

They took the lead on 15 minutes as Moises Caicedo flicked home a header from an Angel Mena cross.

Both sides had a goal ruled out following a VAR review before Michael Estrada doubled the advantage on the stroke of half-time, rifling home from inside the box after a mistake by veteran Uruguay center-back Diego Godin.

Uruguay were denied again by VAR before Ecuador went straight up the other end where Estrada cracked home Valencia's backheel from 20 yards.&nbsp;

Ecuador's final goal was a work of art as Alan Franco's reverse pass bemused Uruguay's defence and Gonzalo Plata rolled his foot over the ball to commit both sliding defender Ronald Araujo and goalkeeper Martin Campana before stroking the ball into the far corner.

Luis Suarez scored his record-extending 61st and 62nd goals for Uruguay with a pair of late penalties that were no more than a consolation.

Radamel Falcao scored an injury time equaliser as Colombia salvaged a point in a 2-2 draw in Chile.

Jefferson Lerma gave Colombia an early lead but Chile turned the match in Quito around by half-time with strikes from Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez.

Gaston Gimenez scored a late winner before goalkeeper Anthony Silva saved a penalty from Yangel Herrera as Paraguay won 1-0 in Venezuela.

Neymar scored a hat-trick to become the second highest scorer in Brazil's history as the Copa America champions won 4-2 away to 10-man Peru in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.

Neymar scored a hat-trick to become the second highest scorer in Brazil's history as the Copa America champions won 4-2 away to 10-man Peru in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. The goals took Neymar to 64 international strikes, two more than Ronaldo but still well behind Pele's record of 77. Elsewhere, Joaquin Correa scored the winner 11 minutes from time as Argentina labored to a 2-1 victory over Bolivia to maintain their 100% record after two matches. Peru twice took the lead through Andre Carrillo and a heavily deflected strike from Renato Tapia, but two controversial Neymar penalties, an injury time third and a close range strike from Richarlison maintained the Selecao's winning start to qualifying for Qatar 2022. Carrillo opened the scoring on six minutes with a dipping volley from 20 yards after latching onto Marquinhos's weak clearance. Peru Goalkeeper Pedro Gallese then denied Firmino from point blank range after he seemed certain to tap home from Richarlison's cushioned header. Brazil dominated the ball but Peru's pacey forwards looked dangerous on the counter-attack and visiting goalkeeper Weverton had to be alert to keep out a shot from Christofer Gonzales. But Neymar sent Gallese the wrong way from the spot after Yoshimar Yotun was penalised for tugging his shirt in the box. Out of nowhere, Tapia's speculative long-range strike took a wicked deflection off Rodrigo Caio and wrong-footed Weverton on 59 minutes. The lead lasted only a few minutes before Richarlison touched a Firmino header from a corner over the line to restore parity. The winner came seven minutes from time as Carlos Zambrano was harshly adjudged to have fouled Neymar. Worse was still to come for Zambrano as he was sent off minutes later for a stray elbow that caught Richarlison and Neymar drilled home the final nail in Peru's coffin after Gallese spilled a shot from Everton Ribeiro. - Farcical equaliser - Lionel Scaloni's Argentina earned a second narrow victory in a row following Thursday's 1-0 win over Ecuador. Marcelo Moreno Martins had given hosts Bolivia a deserved lead but Argentina scored a fortuitous equaliser through Lautaro Martinez. Bolivia should have been ahead on six minutes when Argentina goalkeeper Franco Armani was caught off his line but Moreno Martins sent his header from an angle onto the roof of the net. Moreno Martins made amends on 24 minutes as he rose between Argentina's center-backs to power home a header from eight yards after Alejandro Chumacero was allowed to run from halfway into the visitors' box before crossing from the left. Argentina's equaliser came in comical fashion as Jose Carrasco tried to clear the ball out of his six yard box after cutting out Martinez's cross, but he shanked the ball off the forward's shin and past goalkeeper Carlos Lampe. Lionel Messi, who had an otherwise quiet game, and Martinez then combined to tee up Correa to thrash home the winner. - Ecuador work of art - Ecuador totally dominated Uruguay in a 4-2 victory in Quito. They took the lead on 15 minutes as Moises Caicedo flicked home a header from an Angel Mena cross. Both sides had a goal ruled out following a VAR review before Michael Estrada doubled the advantage on the stroke of half-time, rifling home from inside the box after a mistake by veteran Uruguay center-back Diego Godin. Uruguay were denied again by VAR before Ecuador went straight up the other end where Estrada cracked home Valencia's backheel from 20 yards. Ecuador's final goal was a work of art as Alan Franco's reverse pass bemused Uruguay's defence and Gonzalo Plata rolled his foot over the ball to commit both sliding defender Ronald Araujo and goalkeeper Martin Campana before stroking the ball into the far corner. Luis Suarez scored his record-extending 61st and 62nd goals for Uruguay with a pair of late penalties that were no more than a consolation. Radamel Falcao scored an injury time equaliser as Colombia salvaged a point in a 2-2 draw in Chile. Jefferson Lerma gave Colombia an early lead but Chile turned the match in Quito around by half-time with strikes from Arturo Vidal and Alexis Sanchez. Gaston Gimenez scored a late winner before goalkeeper Anthony Silva saved a penalty from Yangel Herrera as Paraguay won 1-0 in Venezuela.

Neymar hat-trick fires Brazil past Peru, Argentina labor

Premier League chiefs have called for unity after leading clubs discussed a "damaging" overhaul that would trigger the most radical changes to English football in decades.

A Daily Telegraph report on Sunday claimed Liverpool and Manchester United have been driving the 'Project Big Picture' talks, which would rank as the biggest revamp of the sport since the Premier League was launched in 1992.

Among the proposals being considered are a reduction in the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams, the abolition of the League Cup and the Community Shield and greater voting power for 'big six' clubs Liverpool, United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City.

In return for agreeing to those controversial ideas, the Premier League would reportedly give 25 per cent of its annual income to the 72 clubs in the Championship, League One and League Two.

It was suggested the Premier League would make a £250 million ($326 million) payment to the Football League to address the existing crisis, while the Football Association would receive what is being described as a £100 million "gift".

Liverpool's American owners, the Fenway Sports Group, came forward with the initial plan, which has been worked on by United co-chairman Joel Glazer, according to the report.

There will be huge debate over the proposals, which have come in response to the Football League's request for financial aid to stave off the damaging economic impact of the coronavirus.

Football in England has been played behind closed doors since March because of the pandemic, with no sign of fans returning to stadiums until next year at the earliest.

English Football League chairman Rick Parry said the plans should be welcomed, telling the Telegraph: "It is definitely going to be challenging and it is an enormous change so that won't be without some pain.

"Do I genuinely think it's for the greater good of the game as a whole? Absolutely.

"And if the (big) six are deriving some benefit then why shouldn't they. Why wouldn't they put their names to this otherwise?"

&nbsp;

<h2>- 'Damaging impact' -</h2>

&nbsp;

But the Premier League hit back at Parry and distanced themselves from the incendiary scheme.

"English football is the world's most watched, and has a vibrant, dynamic and competitive league structure that drives interest around the globe," a Premier League statement said.&nbsp;

"To maintain this position it is important we all work together.&nbsp;

"Both the Premier League and The FA support a wide-ranging discussion on the future of the game, including its competition structures, calendar and overall financing particularly in light of the effects of COVID-19.&nbsp;

"Football has many stakeholders, therefore this work should be carried out through the proper channels enabling all clubs and stakeholders the opportunity to contribute.

"In the Premier League's view, a number of the individual proposals in the plan published today could have a damaging impact on the whole game and we are disappointed to see that Rick Parry, Chair of the EFL, has given his on-the-record support.

"The Premier League has been working in good faith with its clubs and the EFL to seek a resolution to the requirement for COVID-19 rescue funding. This work will continue."

To reduce the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams, the report claimed four clubs would be relegated directly, with two promoted from the Championship.&nbsp;

In addition, there would be play-offs involving the team to finish 16th in the Premier League and those in third, fourth and fifth in the second tier.

The mooted change to voting proposals would also infuriate smaller clubs in the top-flight.

The 'big six', along with Everton, West Ham and Southampton would be granted special status.

If six of those nine clubs vote in favour of a proposal, it would be enough to get it passed.

Premier League chiefs have called for unity after leading clubs discussed a "damaging" overhaul that would trigger the most radical changes to English football in decades.

Premier League chiefs have called for unity after leading clubs discussed a "damaging" overhaul that would trigger the most radical changes to English football in decades. A Daily Telegraph report on Sunday claimed Liverpool and Manchester United have been driving the 'Project Big Picture' talks, which would rank as the biggest revamp of the sport since the Premier League was launched in 1992. Among the proposals being considered are a reduction in the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams, the abolition of the League Cup and the Community Shield and greater voting power for 'big six' clubs Liverpool, United, Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester City. In return for agreeing to those controversial ideas, the Premier League would reportedly give 25 per cent of its annual income to the 72 clubs in the Championship, League One and League Two. It was suggested the Premier League would make a £250 million ($326 million) payment to the Football League to address the existing crisis, while the Football Association would receive what is being described as a £100 million "gift". Liverpool's American owners, the Fenway Sports Group, came forward with the initial plan, which has been worked on by United co-chairman Joel Glazer, according to the report. There will be huge debate over the proposals, which have come in response to the Football League's request for financial aid to stave off the damaging economic impact of the coronavirus. Football in England has been played behind closed doors since March because of the pandemic, with no sign of fans returning to stadiums until next year at the earliest. English Football League chairman Rick Parry said the plans should be welcomed, telling the Telegraph: "It is definitely going to be challenging and it is an enormous change so that won't be without some pain. "Do I genuinely think it's for the greater good of the game as a whole? Absolutely. "And if the (big) six are deriving some benefit then why shouldn't they. Why wouldn't they put their names to this otherwise?" - 'Damaging impact' - But the Premier League hit back at Parry and distanced themselves from the incendiary scheme. "English football is the world's most watched, and has a vibrant, dynamic and competitive league structure that drives interest around the globe," a Premier League statement said. "To maintain this position it is important we all work together. "Both the Premier League and The FA support a wide-ranging discussion on the future of the game, including its competition structures, calendar and overall financing particularly in light of the effects of COVID-19. "Football has many stakeholders, therefore this work should be carried out through the proper channels enabling all clubs and stakeholders the opportunity to contribute. "In the Premier League's view, a number of the individual proposals in the plan published today could have a damaging impact on the whole game and we are disappointed to see that Rick Parry, Chair of the EFL, has given his on-the-record support. "The Premier League has been working in good faith with its clubs and the EFL to seek a resolution to the requirement for COVID-19 rescue funding. This work will continue." To reduce the Premier League from 20 to 18 teams, the report claimed four clubs would be relegated directly, with two promoted from the Championship. In addition, there would be play-offs involving the team to finish 16th in the Premier League and those in third, fourth and fifth in the second tier. The mooted change to voting proposals would also infuriate smaller clubs in the top-flight. The 'big six', along with Everton, West Ham and Southampton would be granted special status. If six of those nine clubs vote in favour of a proposal, it would be enough to get it passed.

Premier League slam 'damaging' revamp plan

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has tipped England as one of the leading contenders to win Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup.

De Bruyne will get a close look at England on Sunday when Belgium visit Wembley for a Nations League clash.

But the Manchester City midfielder already knows plenty about the players in Gareth Southgate's squad after spending the last five years in the Premier League.

England reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and De Bruyne -- voted the Premier League's Player of the Year last season -- expects them to have an even stronger run at the next two major tournaments.

"I think they should be very excited. It is a very young team with a lot of potential and I think they should aim to win the next Euros and World Cup. I think they have that potential," De Bruyne told reporters on Saturday.

"There are always a lot of teams who want to win it, but I think the team they have, the players who play in top clubs, they should do that."

Belgium are currently the world's top-ranked team and beat England twice at the 2018 World Cup, but they will be without key men Dries Mertens and Eden Hazard on Sunday.

"It is going to be a tough test but these are the tests that are necessary for us to see what is going to happen against a big team," De Bruyne said.

"With the personnel we are losing at the moment it is going to be a bit harder but we are confident that we can play a good game tomorrow."

After working in the Premier League with Everton and Wigan, Belgium boss Roberto Martinez shares De Bruyne's view that they are ready to win a major tournament for the first time since the 1966 World Cup.

"Since 1995 I am a coach that was working in Britain, I know there has been a real development in the winning mentality," Martinez said.

"The young age groups are winning World Cups, the players are winning at a young age and that comes through to the first team and now Gareth is discovering that.

"His players are as good as anyone individually in world football and it is just a matter of time that they will get that trophy or major result in a major tournament."

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has tipped England as one of the leading contenders to win Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup. De Bruyne will get a close look at England on Sunday when Belgium visit Wembley for a Nations League clash.

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has tipped England as one of the leading contenders to win Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup. De Bruyne will get a close look at England on Sunday when Belgium visit Wembley for a Nations League clash. But the Manchester City midfielder already knows plenty about the players in Gareth Southgate's squad after spending the last five years in the Premier League. England reached the World Cup semi-finals in 2018 and De Bruyne -- voted the Premier League's Player of the Year last season -- expects them to have an even stronger run at the next two major tournaments. "I think they should be very excited. It is a very young team with a lot of potential and I think they should aim to win the next Euros and World Cup. I think they have that potential," De Bruyne told reporters on Saturday. "There are always a lot of teams who want to win it, but I think the team they have, the players who play in top clubs, they should do that." Belgium are currently the world's top-ranked team and beat England twice at the 2018 World Cup, but they will be without key men Dries Mertens and Eden Hazard on Sunday. "It is going to be a tough test but these are the tests that are necessary for us to see what is going to happen against a big team," De Bruyne said. "With the personnel we are losing at the moment it is going to be a bit harder but we are confident that we can play a good game tomorrow." After working in the Premier League with Everton and Wigan, Belgium boss Roberto Martinez shares De Bruyne's view that they are ready to win a major tournament for the first time since the 1966 World Cup. "Since 1995 I am a coach that was working in Britain, I know there has been a real development in the winning mentality," Martinez said. "The young age groups are winning World Cups, the players are winning at a young age and that comes through to the first team and now Gareth is discovering that. "His players are as good as anyone individually in world football and it is just a matter of time that they will get that trophy or major result in a major tournament."

De Bruyne tips England to shine at Euros, World Cup

Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford was honoured by Queen Elizabeth II on Friday in recognition of his campaign to feed vulnerable children, alongside hundreds of key workers who helped in the fight against the coronavirus.

The England international is one of the highest-profile figures in the monarch's birthday honours list, which was postponed from June in order to include frontline health workers and others in the Covid-19 effort.

The 22-year-old forced a government U-turn over its free school meals policy, ensuring children in need would receive meal vouchers throughout the summer months, and has formed a child food poverty task force.

Rashford, who has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), said he was "honoured and humbled" to receive the award.

"Let's stand together in saying that no children in the UK should be going to bed hungry," he said. "As I have said many times before, no matter your feeling or opinion, not having access to food is never the child's fault."

Fitness expert Joe Wicks, whose daily online exercise sessions drew millions of viewers across the globe, is also being made an MBE.

Rapper Lady Leshurr is being awarded the British Empire Medal after releasing a coronavirus-related song this year reminding people to wash their hands.

"I can't believe that the queen of England has noticed and commended the queen of grime," she said.

Of those who have been honoured, nearly three-quarters have worked for their local communities, reflecting the huge voluntary effort in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

"This year's honours recipients are a testament to the sort of country we are -- caring, compassionate and resolute in the face of a global pandemic," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

"The hard work and dedication of these local, often unsung heroes has helped carry us through. I congratulate them all."

More than 42,000 people have died in the outbreak in Britain -- the worst toll in Europe -- and concern is currently mounting about rising infection numbers.

The honours list includes 100-year-old Dabirul Islam Choudhury, was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) after he raised £420,000 ($545,000) for Covid-19 relief while fasting during Ramadan.

Several experts working in the science, health and pharmaceutical fields have also been recognised for their efforts, including Emma Walmsley, chief executive of pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline, who becomes a dame.

"I'm humbled to receive this honour," said Walmsley. "It is a real testament to the many outstanding people we have at GSK and the work we do for patients and people here in the UK and around the world."

Ex-Wales rugby union coach Warren Gatland was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the sport in Wales while former British and Irish Lions captain Gareth Thomas has been awarded a CBE for services to sport and health.

Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford was honoured by Queen Elizabeth II on Friday in recognition of his campaign to feed vulnerable children, alongside hundreds of key workers who helped in the fight against the coronavirus.

Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford was honoured by Queen Elizabeth II on Friday in recognition of his campaign to feed vulnerable children, alongside hundreds of key workers who helped in the fight against the coronavirus. The England international is one of the highest-profile figures in the monarch's birthday honours list, which was postponed from June in order to include frontline health workers and others in the Covid-19 effort. The 22-year-old forced a government U-turn over its free school meals policy, ensuring children in need would receive meal vouchers throughout the summer months, and has formed a child food poverty task force. Rashford, who has been made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), said he was "honoured and humbled" to receive the award. "Let's stand together in saying that no children in the UK should be going to bed hungry," he said. "As I have said many times before, no matter your feeling or opinion, not having access to food is never the child's fault." Fitness expert Joe Wicks, whose daily online exercise sessions drew millions of viewers across the globe, is also being made an MBE. Rapper Lady Leshurr is being awarded the British Empire Medal after releasing a coronavirus-related song this year reminding people to wash their hands. "I can't believe that the queen of England has noticed and commended the queen of grime," she said. Of those who have been honoured, nearly three-quarters have worked for their local communities, reflecting the huge voluntary effort in response to the coronavirus pandemic. "This year's honours recipients are a testament to the sort of country we are -- caring, compassionate and resolute in the face of a global pandemic," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson. "The hard work and dedication of these local, often unsung heroes has helped carry us through. I congratulate them all." More than 42,000 people have died in the outbreak in Britain -- the worst toll in Europe -- and concern is currently mounting about rising infection numbers. The honours list includes 100-year-old Dabirul Islam Choudhury, was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) after he raised £420,000 ($545,000) for Covid-19 relief while fasting during Ramadan. Several experts working in the science, health and pharmaceutical fields have also been recognised for their efforts, including Emma Walmsley, chief executive of pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline, who becomes a dame. "I'm humbled to receive this honour," said Walmsley. "It is a real testament to the many outstanding people we have at GSK and the work we do for patients and people here in the UK and around the world." Ex-Wales rugby union coach Warren Gatland was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the sport in Wales while former British and Irish Lions captain Gareth Thomas has been awarded a CBE for services to sport and health.

Footballer Rashford tops list of UK honours for key virus workers

Former England international and Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has been appointed the head coach of East Bengal for the next two years, team's principal owner Hari Mohan Bangur said on Friday.

"We have signed the contract last night (Thursday) and Robbie Fowler is expected to join the side directly in Goa within a week," Bangur, who has acquired a majority stake in East Bengal, confirmed the development to PTI from Dubai.

"As of now, we have offered him a two-year contract which could be extended in due course," Bangur said.

Former India captain Rennedy Singh will be Fowler's deputy. Rennedy is a former East Bengal captain also.

The owner and managing director of Shree Cement Limited, who has acquired a majority stake of 76 per cent, further revealed that the team will be known as SC East Bengal as they along with Mohun Bagan make it a 11-team ISL.

"It could be Sporting Club East Bengal or Shree Cement East Bengal as per your interpretation. We as a corporate group cannot prefix 'Shree Cement' to East Bengal so we have decided the team as 'SCEB," he said.

Premier League's all-time seventh highest goal scorer with 163 strikes to his name, the former English striker was a product of Liverpool youth academy and made his senior team debut in 1993.

He has been the third-higest goalscorer for the Reds where he played till 2001 before switching allegiance to arch-rivals Leeds United and then Manchester City.

In his managerial career, Fowler was with A-League side Brisbane Roar FC last season when they finished fourth. 
Bangur said the first priority would be to make up for the lost time.

"We are already short on preparation, and will start with a handicap. So he will assemble the squad as early as possible in Goa. We will look to make a competitive side," Bangur said.

The 45-year-old Fowler also coached Thailand's top division club Muangthong United in the middle of his playing season there and guided the team to third place.

Former England international and Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has been appointed the head coach of East Bengal for the next two years, team's principal owner Hari Mohan Bangur said on Friday.

Former England international and Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has been appointed the head coach of East Bengal for the next two years, team's principal owner Hari Mohan Bangur said on Friday. "We have signed the contract last night (Thursday) and Robbie Fowler is expected to join the side directly in Goa within a week," Bangur, who has acquired a majority stake in East Bengal, confirmed the development to PTI from Dubai. "As of now, we have offered him a two-year contract which could be extended in due course," Bangur said. Former India captain Rennedy Singh will be Fowler's deputy. Rennedy is a former East Bengal captain also. The owner and managing director of Shree Cement Limited, who has acquired a majority stake of 76 per cent, further revealed that the team will be known as SC East Bengal as they along with Mohun Bagan make it a 11-team ISL. "It could be Sporting Club East Bengal or Shree Cement East Bengal as per your interpretation. We as a corporate group cannot prefix 'Shree Cement' to East Bengal so we have decided the team as 'SCEB," he said. Premier League's all-time seventh highest goal scorer with 163 strikes to his name, the former English striker was a product of Liverpool youth academy and made his senior team debut in 1993. He has been the third-higest goalscorer for the Reds where he played till 2001 before switching allegiance to arch-rivals Leeds United and then Manchester City. In his managerial career, Fowler was with A-League side Brisbane Roar FC last season when they finished fourth. Bangur said the first priority would be to make up for the lost time. "We are already short on preparation, and will start with a handicap. So he will assemble the squad as early as possible in Goa. We will look to make a competitive side," Bangur said. The 45-year-old Fowler also coached Thailand's top division club Muangthong United in the middle of his playing season there and guided the team to third place.

ISL: East Bengal appoint Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler as head coach

LaLiga, Spain's top division football league on Friday announced the launch of the LaLiga Club series programme, to their football school curriculum in India in association with India On Track (IOT). Students of LaLiga Football Schools will get an opportunity to understand the technical and institutional session with experts from LaLiga clubs such as Real Betis, Sevilla FC, and Celta de Vigo over a span of six weeks starting October 9, 2020.

These virtual sessions will feature informational topics like the history of the club, legacy, club rivalries, along with focusing on developmental aspects such as the youth academy system, scouting processes, player evaluation and much more. Additionally, the students will also get an opportunity to participate in technical topics such as match analysis, strength and conditioning sessions, and masterclasses with the academy coaches. LaLiga Club series will be available for all the LaLiga Football Schools students in the country across the age group of 5 to 18 years.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-fires-argentina-to-wc-qualifying-win-over-ecuador-333917" hreflang="en">Messi fires Argentina to WC qualifying win over Ecuador</a>

Real Betis will host the first session on 09th followed by Celta de Vigo on 16th October and Sevilla FC on 23rd October.

LaLiga’s historic grassroots football development programme in India always expects to bring enthusiasm for the sport amongst the students with new and exciting projects. As the current situation was, the on-ground events are at a halt LaLiga football Schools and LaLiga clubs are taking the initiative to engage and introduce new activities to build a greater connection with the football fans in India.

Jose Antonio Cachaza, Managing Director, LaLiga India said, “India has been our top priority market, and the response we have received for our initiatives is overwhelming. We have a holistic approach aimed at achieving overall sporting excellence through various training and development programmes. With LaLiga Club Series, we look to familiarise young fans across India with the personalities of different football clubs, and enhance their knowledge of the ecosystem of the sport.”

Saúl Vazquez, Technical Head, LaLiga Football Schools India said, “LaLiga Club Series will be conducted online and via the partner Clubs, the students will learn about the techniques and methodologies specific to these clubs. All this will help them better understand the Clubs' style of play and operations and also provide them with greater exposure to different kinds of football.”

Earlier this year the LaLiga Football Schools launched LaLiga Football Schools at home along with India On Track (IOT), which helped inculcate a culture of sports amongst the youth. Now LLFS has added this weekly online programme, conducted by the representatives from each associated club to its offerings. These representatives will communicate digitally on various technical and institutional topics with students once a week for 60 min every Friday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

LaLiga, Spain's top division football league on Friday announced the launch of the LaLiga Club series programme, to their football school curriculum in India in association with India On Track (IOT).

LaLiga, Spain's top division football league on Friday announced the launch of the LaLiga Club series programme, to their football school curriculum in India in association with India On Track (IOT). Students of LaLiga Football Schools will get an opportunity to understand the technical and institutional session with experts from LaLiga clubs such as Real Betis, Sevilla FC, and Celta de Vigo over a span of six weeks starting October 9, 2020. These virtual sessions will feature informational topics like the history of the club, legacy, club rivalries, along with focusing on developmental aspects such as the youth academy system, scouting processes, player evaluation and much more. Additionally, the students will also get an opportunity to participate in technical topics such as match analysis, strength and conditioning sessions, and masterclasses with the academy coaches. LaLiga Club series will be available for all the LaLiga Football Schools students in the country across the age group of 5 to 18 years. ALSO READ: Messi fires Argentina to WC qualifying win over Ecuador Real Betis will host the first session on 09th followed by Celta de Vigo on 16th October and Sevilla FC on 23rd October. LaLiga’s historic grassroots football development programme in India always expects to bring enthusiasm for the sport amongst the students with new and exciting projects. As the current situation was, the on-ground events are at a halt LaLiga football Schools and LaLiga clubs are taking the initiative to engage and introduce new activities to build a greater connection with the football fans in India. Jose Antonio Cachaza, Managing Director, LaLiga India said, “India has been our top priority market, and the response we have received for our initiatives is overwhelming. We have a holistic approach aimed at achieving overall sporting excellence through various training and development programmes. With LaLiga Club Series, we look to familiarise young fans across India with the personalities of different football clubs, and enhance their knowledge of the ecosystem of the sport.” Saúl Vazquez, Technical Head, LaLiga Football Schools India said, “LaLiga Club Series will be conducted online and via the partner Clubs, the students will learn about the techniques and methodologies specific to these clubs. All this will help them better understand the Clubs' style of play and operations and also provide them with greater exposure to different kinds of football.” Earlier this year the LaLiga Football Schools launched LaLiga Football Schools at home along with India On Track (IOT), which helped inculcate a culture of sports amongst the youth. Now LLFS has added this weekly online programme, conducted by the representatives from each associated club to its offerings. These representatives will communicate digitally on various technical and institutional topics with students once a week for 60 min every Friday.

LaLiga Football School launches LaLiga Club series for young aspirants across India

Lionel Messi put his Barcelona troubles behind him to fire Argentina to an opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador in World Cup qualifying on Thursday.

The 33-year-old great has been in open conflict with his club but it had no detrimental effect on his form as his 13th minute penalty was the difference in a tight encounter.

The six-time Ballon d'Or winner unsuccessfully tried to force his way out of the Catalan giants in the close season but he seemed much happier in the light blue and white jersey of his country.

And Argentina needed him to be on top form in a bid to avoid slipping up at home to Ecuador for the second successive time in an opening World Cup qualifier having lost 2-0 to the same opponents four years ago.

In the surreal atmosphere of an empty Bombonera -- the iconic stadium in Buenos Aires that is usually bouncing from the passion of fervent fans was left barren by coronavirus restrictions -- Argentina never looked in danger of another shock defeat.

The hosts predictably dominated possession but struggled to break down an organized and physical Ecuador outfit that proved a different proposition to the one dispatched 6-1 in a friendly a year ago.

The breakthrough came after a reckless challenge by Pervis Estupinan sent Lucas Ocampo sprawling in the box, with Messi stepping up to lash home his 71st international goal.

Ocampos was presented with a glorious chance to double the lead early in the second half but goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez dived full length to keep out his low shot from eight yards.

Rodrigo De Paul fired narrowly wide for the hosts with the last kick of the match.

In Montevideo, Luis Suarez scored a record extending 60th international goal for Uruguay before substitute Maxi Gomez bagged an injury time winner against Chile.

Atletico Madrid forward Suarez opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 39 minutes after Sebastian Vegas was harshly penalized for handball.

Inter Milan's Alexis Sanchez equalised with a low shot on 54 minutes but Gomez had the last word with a stunning half-volley from 20 yards to complete the 2-1 win.

It was honors even between Paraguay and Peru in Asuncion as Angel Romero for the hosts and Andre Carrillo both scored a brace.

Lionel Messi put his Barcelona troubles behind him to fire Argentina to an opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador in World Cup qualifying on Thursday. The 33-year-old great has been in open conflict with his club but it had no detrimental effect on his form as his 13th minute penalty was the difference in a tight encounter.

Lionel Messi put his Barcelona troubles behind him to fire Argentina to an opening 1-0 victory over Ecuador in World Cup qualifying on Thursday. The 33-year-old great has been in open conflict with his club but it had no detrimental effect on his form as his 13th minute penalty was the difference in a tight encounter. The six-time Ballon d'Or winner unsuccessfully tried to force his way out of the Catalan giants in the close season but he seemed much happier in the light blue and white jersey of his country. And Argentina needed him to be on top form in a bid to avoid slipping up at home to Ecuador for the second successive time in an opening World Cup qualifier having lost 2-0 to the same opponents four years ago. In the surreal atmosphere of an empty Bombonera -- the iconic stadium in Buenos Aires that is usually bouncing from the passion of fervent fans was left barren by coronavirus restrictions -- Argentina never looked in danger of another shock defeat. The hosts predictably dominated possession but struggled to break down an organized and physical Ecuador outfit that proved a different proposition to the one dispatched 6-1 in a friendly a year ago. The breakthrough came after a reckless challenge by Pervis Estupinan sent Lucas Ocampo sprawling in the box, with Messi stepping up to lash home his 71st international goal. Ocampos was presented with a glorious chance to double the lead early in the second half but goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez dived full length to keep out his low shot from eight yards. Rodrigo De Paul fired narrowly wide for the hosts with the last kick of the match. In Montevideo, Luis Suarez scored a record extending 60th international goal for Uruguay before substitute Maxi Gomez bagged an injury time winner against Chile. Atletico Madrid forward Suarez opened the scoring from the penalty spot on 39 minutes after Sebastian Vegas was harshly penalized for handball. Inter Milan's Alexis Sanchez equalised with a low shot on 54 minutes but Gomez had the last word with a stunning half-volley from 20 yards to complete the 2-1 win. It was honors even between Paraguay and Peru in Asuncion as Angel Romero for the hosts and Andre Carrillo both scored a brace.

Messi fires Argentina to WC qualifying win over Ecuador

Cristiano Ronaldo hit the crossbar as Portugal and Spain played out a goalless draw in a compelling friendly in Lisbon on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ronaldo and Renato Sanchez both struck the woodwork for Portugal, who then should have won it in injury-time only for Joao Felix to miskick at the back post.&nbsp;

Spain were the better team early on at the Jose Alvalade stadium and also went close through Dani Olmo but neither side were able to claim victory ahead of upcoming games in the Nations League.

"I think we were better than Portugal," said Spain coach Luis Enrique. "We dominated the game. For sure they had two shots on the break that hit the bar and one that Kepa saved but we had chances as well."&nbsp;

Both sit top of their Nations League groups, Portugal with maximum points after beating Croatia and Sweden while Spain have four after thrashing Ukraine and drawing with Germany.&nbsp;

Spain go up against Switzerland on Saturday before playing against Ukraine three days later. Portugal face world champions France on Sunday and then play at home to Sweden.&nbsp;

During the first half, it was also announced by the football federations of the two countries they will stage a joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup.&nbsp;

They will be competing against Morocco, as well as another joint bid from Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay and Chile.&nbsp;

The last time Spain and Portugal met was for the thrilling 3-3 draw at the 2018 World Cup, when Ronaldo scored a hat-trick, including a stunning late equaliser from a free-kick.&nbsp;

This was a far less dramatic contest, with both teams still rebuilding ahead of next year's postponed European Championships.&nbsp;

It was the first time Spain had failed to score since losing to&nbsp;Italy&nbsp;at the 2016 European Championships in France.

Luis Enrique fielded an experimental eleven, which included Chelsea's struggling goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, Manchester City's 19-year-old central defender Eric Garcia and the newly called-up Sergio Canales in midfield.&nbsp;

For Portugal, the 20-year-old Francisco Trincao, who has just joined Barcelona, started in a front three with Ronaldo and Andre Silva.&nbsp;

Spain enjoyed a superb opening quarter of an hour but had nothing to show for it, as Gerard Moreno missed from close range and Olmo volleyed wide.&nbsp;

Portugal went closest in the second half. Ronaldo shifted onto his left foot and thundered a shot against the crossbar. He then turned provider, curving a pass right to Renato, whose effort also crashed against the frame and bounced out.

The best chance though fell to Felix in injury-time, the ball finding him free at the back post, only for the youngster to slide and somehow fail to connect.

Cristiano Ronaldo hit the crossbar as Portugal and Spain played out a goalless draw in a compelling friendly in Lisbon on Wednesday. Ronaldo and Renato Sanchez both struck the woodwork for Portugal, who then should have won it in injury-time only for Joao Felix to miskick at the back post.

Cristiano Ronaldo hit the crossbar as Portugal and Spain played out a goalless draw in a compelling friendly in Lisbon on Wednesday. Ronaldo and Renato Sanchez both struck the woodwork for Portugal, who then should have won it in injury-time only for Joao Felix to miskick at the back post. Spain were the better team early on at the Jose Alvalade stadium and also went close through Dani Olmo but neither side were able to claim victory ahead of upcoming games in the Nations League. "I think we were better than Portugal," said Spain coach Luis Enrique. "We dominated the game. For sure they had two shots on the break that hit the bar and one that Kepa saved but we had chances as well." Both sit top of their Nations League groups, Portugal with maximum points after beating Croatia and Sweden while Spain have four after thrashing Ukraine and drawing with Germany. Spain go up against Switzerland on Saturday before playing against Ukraine three days later. Portugal face world champions France on Sunday and then play at home to Sweden. During the first half, it was also announced by the football federations of the two countries they will stage a joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup. They will be competing against Morocco, as well as another joint bid from Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay and Chile. The last time Spain and Portugal met was for the thrilling 3-3 draw at the 2018 World Cup, when Ronaldo scored a hat-trick, including a stunning late equaliser from a free-kick. This was a far less dramatic contest, with both teams still rebuilding ahead of next year's postponed European Championships. It was the first time Spain had failed to score since losing to Italy at the 2016 European Championships in France. Luis Enrique fielded an experimental eleven, which included Chelsea's struggling goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, Manchester City's 19-year-old central defender Eric Garcia and the newly called-up Sergio Canales in midfield. For Portugal, the 20-year-old Francisco Trincao, who has just joined Barcelona, started in a front three with Ronaldo and Andre Silva. Spain enjoyed a superb opening quarter of an hour but had nothing to show for it, as Gerard Moreno missed from close range and Olmo volleyed wide. Portugal went closest in the second half. Ronaldo shifted onto his left foot and thundered a shot against the crossbar. He then turned provider, curving a pass right to Renato, whose effort also crashed against the frame and bounced out. The best chance though fell to Felix in injury-time, the ball finding him free at the back post, only for the youngster to slide and somehow fail to connect.

Ronaldo denied as Portugal held by Spain

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> chief executive Richard Masters has pleaded with the government to rethink its stadium supporter ban, calling for football to be treated "fairly".

Matches at the end of last season in the English top-flight and the beginning of the new campaign have been played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus crisis.

Plans to pilot a limited return of fans from October 1 were shelved last month due to tighter lockdown measures following a surge in cases of Covid-19 in Britain.

Masters told The Times newspaper that he welcomed the return of audiences to concert venues but said football stadiums should be included.

"It's good news that (concert) venues can run socially distanced events indoors, it gives them a lifeline," he said. "We are starting to see the return of the paying spectator at a ticketed event and we just believe that football should be allowed to do the same.

"We do understand why caution is needed but what we are asking for is consistency from government so that sport is treated as fairly as other activities."

"We are a highly regulated environment. We have the Sports Grounds Safety Authority in place to ensure that supporters are safe at all times and we're outdoors in a highly stewarded environment. What we really need is clarity for our clubs and supporters and a road map from government."

Masters said Premier League clubs were facing a number of tough challenges including the scrapping of the October return date for fans, expectations to help clubs lower down the pyramid and the frustration of seeing entertainment arenas close to football grounds reopen with no "roadmap" for the return of supporters.

Masters cited the example of the Bundesliga, which has allowed limited number of fans back depending on local virus rates, as one that clubs could potentially follow.

"The government is managing the country around local conditions so we have to be flexible in that respect," he said.

"We have been in regular conversation with our German counterparts and we are aware of how it's working and how it is not working for some clubs where the numbers are higher.

"Like everything, you have to start somewhere and just to do it would be fantastic. Football needs its voice back, we need fans back in the stadiums to provide that missing ingredient.

"Having fans back, even if it is not exclusively across the league, has given German football a massive boost."

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has pleaded with the government to rethink its stadium supporter ban, calling for football to be treated "fairly".

Premier League chief executive Richard Masters has pleaded with the government to rethink its stadium supporter ban, calling for football to be treated "fairly". Matches at the end of last season in the English top-flight and the beginning of the new campaign have been played behind closed doors due to the coronavirus crisis. Plans to pilot a limited return of fans from October 1 were shelved last month due to tighter lockdown measures following a surge in cases of Covid-19 in Britain. Masters told The Times newspaper that he welcomed the return of audiences to concert venues but said football stadiums should be included. "It's good news that (concert) venues can run socially distanced events indoors, it gives them a lifeline," he said. "We are starting to see the return of the paying spectator at a ticketed event and we just believe that football should be allowed to do the same. "We do understand why caution is needed but what we are asking for is consistency from government so that sport is treated as fairly as other activities." "We are a highly regulated environment. We have the Sports Grounds Safety Authority in place to ensure that supporters are safe at all times and we're outdoors in a highly stewarded environment. What we really need is clarity for our clubs and supporters and a road map from government." Masters said Premier League clubs were facing a number of tough challenges including the scrapping of the October return date for fans, expectations to help clubs lower down the pyramid and the frustration of seeing entertainment arenas close to football grounds reopen with no "roadmap" for the return of supporters. Masters cited the example of the Bundesliga, which has allowed limited number of fans back depending on local virus rates, as one that clubs could potentially follow. "The government is managing the country around local conditions so we have to be flexible in that respect," he said. "We have been in regular conversation with our German counterparts and we are aware of how it's working and how it is not working for some clubs where the numbers are higher. "Like everything, you have to start somewhere and just to do it would be fantastic. Football needs its voice back, we need fans back in the stadiums to provide that missing ingredient. "Having fans back, even if it is not exclusively across the league, has given German football a massive boost."

Premier League chief pleads for rethink of stadium fan ban

Mohamed Salah have time and time again scored or assisted for Liverpool on the pitch in a bid to help the Reds win trophies since joining the club in 2017. While Salah’s quality on the football field is known to all, he recently did something which will make every football fan proud.&nbsp;

Following Liverpool 3-1 win against Arsenal on September 28, Salah was spotted at a petrol station near Anfield, where David Graig – a man who has been sleeping rough for nearly six years, was being taunted and harassed by a group of people. Salah bravely stepped in to save the homeless man from being harassed by the group of men, as revealed in a CCTV footage.

The Egyptian forward told the abusers that they could one day become homeless before withdrawing £100 to give to Craig.

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“Mo had seen a couple of the lads hassling me," Craig told the Sun and added, “they were calling me names, asking why I was begging and telling me to get a job.

<img alt="Mo Salah" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="40eb080a-55f1-42ff-902f-31b335052912" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/EjtiNi4WAAAxA6-.jpeg" />

"Mo was every bit as wonderful as he is for Liverpool on the pitch. He heard what a group of lads were saying to me, then turned to them and said, 'That could be you in a few years.'

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-rajasthan-royals-steve-smith-latest-skipper-fined-for-slow-over-rate-333127" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals' Steve Smith latest skipper fined for slow over-rate</a>

"I only knew I wasn't hallucinating when Mo incredibly handed me £100. What a complete legend. He saw what was happening and said something to them and then he went to the cash machine.

"Mo is a real-life hero in my eyes and I want to thank him."

Mohamed Salah have time and time again scored or assisted for Liverpool on the pitch in a bid to help the Reds win trophies since joining the club in 2017. While Salah’s quality on the football field is known to all, he recently did something which will make every football fan proud.

Mohamed Salah have time and time again scored or assisted for Liverpool on the pitch in a bid to help the Reds win trophies since joining the club in 2017. While Salah’s quality on the football field is known to all, he recently did something which will make every football fan proud. Following Liverpool 3-1 win against Arsenal on September 28, Salah was spotted at a petrol station near Anfield, where David Graig – a man who has been sleeping rough for nearly six years, was being taunted and harassed by a group of people. Salah bravely stepped in to save the homeless man from being harassed by the group of men, as revealed in a CCTV footage. The Egyptian forward told the abusers that they could one day become homeless before withdrawing £100 to give to Craig. ALSO READ: James, Davis put Lakers on brink as Miami downed “Mo had seen a couple of the lads hassling me," Craig told the Sun and added, “they were calling me names, asking why I was begging and telling me to get a job. "Mo was every bit as wonderful as he is for Liverpool on the pitch. He heard what a group of lads were saying to me, then turned to them and said, 'That could be you in a few years.' ALSO READ: IPL 2020: Rajasthan Royals' Steve Smith latest skipper fined for slow over-rate "I only knew I wasn't hallucinating when Mo incredibly handed me £100. What a complete legend. He saw what was happening and said something to them and then he went to the cash machine. "Mo is a real-life hero in my eyes and I want to thank him."

Liverpool's Mo Salah steps in to confront group harassing homeless man

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman says Lionel Messi has been the ideal captain and an example to the rest of the team for the way he has applied himself since deciding to stay at the club this season.

Messi gave an outstanding performance in Barca’s 3-0 win over Celta Vigo on Thursday after playing the whole second half with 10 men, crushing any fears that the Argentine might lack commitment after the club refused to let him leave.

“From day one Leo has trained and played well and has given the maximum for the club, for his team and for his team mates and I have had no complaints about him on any day,” Koeman said ahead of Barca’s La Liga game at home to Sevilla on Sunday.

“He proved himself once again the other day against Celta, he pulled his weight as a captain, he helped the team play the ball out from the back because it’s so important to keep the ball when you have one less player.

“There’s no debate, for me he has always been the best player in the world, I thought that before from the outside and I think it even more now I’m working with him. He’s fully committed, he’s an example to everyone as a captain should be.”

Koeman also praised the form of Philippe Coutinho, who has thrived since returning from a loan spell at Bayern Munich, having flopped in his first two seasons with the Catalans after a club record move from Liverpool in 2018.

“Coutinho is a very good player, he has learned a lot in England and with Bayern and my job as a coach is to get the best out of each player and find their best role,” he said.

“A coach can help but it all starts with the quality of a player and Coutinho is a great footballer.”

The Dutchman also said Barca want to sign a striker and a centre back before the transfer window shuts, confirming their interest in Manchester City defender Eric Garcia.

“We would like to sign this player, we have four centre backs and we are short there. We know it’s difficult financially but I hope we can get it done,” Koeman said.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman says Lionel Messi has been the ideal captain and an example to the rest of the team for the way he has applied himself since deciding to stay at the club this season.

Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman says Lionel Messi has been the ideal captain and an example to the rest of the team for the way he has applied himself since deciding to stay at the club this season. Messi gave an outstanding performance in Barca’s 3-0 win over Celta Vigo on Thursday after playing the whole second half with 10 men, crushing any fears that the Argentine might lack commitment after the club refused to let him leave. “From day one Leo has trained and played well and has given the maximum for the club, for his team and for his team mates and I have had no complaints about him on any day,” Koeman said ahead of Barca’s La Liga game at home to Sevilla on Sunday. “He proved himself once again the other day against Celta, he pulled his weight as a captain, he helped the team play the ball out from the back because it’s so important to keep the ball when you have one less player. “There’s no debate, for me he has always been the best player in the world, I thought that before from the outside and I think it even more now I’m working with him. He’s fully committed, he’s an example to everyone as a captain should be.” Koeman also praised the form of Philippe Coutinho, who has thrived since returning from a loan spell at Bayern Munich, having flopped in his first two seasons with the Catalans after a club record move from Liverpool in 2018. “Coutinho is a very good player, he has learned a lot in England and with Bayern and my job as a coach is to get the best out of each player and find their best role,” he said. “A coach can help but it all starts with the quality of a player and Coutinho is a great footballer.” The Dutchman also said Barca want to sign a striker and a centre back before the transfer window shuts, confirming their interest in Manchester City defender Eric Garcia. “We would like to sign this player, we have four centre backs and we are short there. We know it’s difficult financially but I hope we can get it done,” Koeman said.

Messi has given maximum since ending transfer saga, says Barca coach Koeman

Paris Saint-Germain had no difficulties seeing off Angers in the opening game of the Ligue 1 weekend, but remarks by sporting director Leonardo after the 6-1 victory exposed smouldering problems within the club.

After the game on Friday night, in which Neymar, who scored twice, and Kylian Mbappe, who struck once, showed that the club's stars can deliver, Leonardo spoke to journalists at the Parc des Princes and responded sharply to coach Thomas Tuchel's criticism the day before of the club's transfer activity.

Leonardo said that neither he nor the club "appreciated" Tuchel's &nbsp;assertion that the PSG squad had been weakened since they reached the Champions League final in August.

"If someone is not happy, if he decides to stay, he must respect either the&nbsp;sports&nbsp;policy or the internal rules," Leonardo said.

"You have to understand the moment we are all living through, these are very serious situations. Not understanding this situation, we didn't like it. Now we're going to address it internally."&nbsp;

Tuchel complained on Thursday that the club had not done enough ahead of&nbsp;what promises to be an unusually demanding and compressed season. Leonardo responded that the problems created by the coronavirus extended beyond the playing field.

"Everybody has lost millions, it's weird to talk about it. Nobody is buying , except in England, which is a world apart", said Leonardo adding that the health crisis had cost PSG almost 100 million euros.&nbsp;

It was the first time that Leonardo has publicly criticised the coach, who he inherited when he took over in July 2019.

PSG won every domestic trophy available in France last season before losing narrowly to Bayern Munich in August's Champions League final in Lisbon.

However, since the end of last season their captain Thiago Silva, all-time top scorer Edinson Cavani, right-back Thomas Meunier, striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and defensive starlet Tanguy Kouassi have left.

Apart from making Mauro Icardi's loan move from Inter Milan into a permanent transfer, the only new arrivals are right-back Alessandro Florenzi, on loan from Roma, and third-choice goalkeeper Alexandre Letellier.&nbsp;

Tuchel said he wanted new signings.

"If we stay like this we can't speak about having the same objectives," the German said.&nbsp;

"Perhaps we can do it but we can't ask for the same things from such a reduced squad when we will have to fight with teams like Manchester City, Liverpool and Atletico Madrid, who have all been very strong in the transfer market.

"In a season like this, with players who will be playing a lot for their national teams, with the coronavirus, without a pre-season, with a schedule like we have, I am worried that we will pay the price in October, November, December and January."

Leonardo said that Tuchel had to be prepared to work with the talent he had.

"I also didn't like him saying that this team is weak. We're talking about a huge team," the Brazilian said.&nbsp;

"It's not a question of the transfer window, but of form. To stay at this club, you have to be happy, with the desire to suffer for the club, the spirit of sacrifice, even if you're going through a tough moment. If you can sign players, fine. If not, we'll keep going. That's the spirit we're looking for."&nbsp;

"We'll try to be creative. I don't know how it's going to end. A lot of things can happen, like nothing. We are living in such a difficult time. This is not the time to buy."

The disagreement promises three tense days before the transfer window closes on Monday evening.

Paris Saint-Germain had no difficulties seeing off Angers in the opening game of the Ligue 1 weekend, but remarks by sporting director Leonardo after the 6-1 victory exposed smouldering problems within the club.

Paris Saint-Germain had no difficulties seeing off Angers in the opening game of the Ligue 1 weekend, but remarks by sporting director Leonardo after the 6-1 victory exposed smouldering problems within the club. After the game on Friday night, in which Neymar, who scored twice, and Kylian Mbappe, who struck once, showed that the club's stars can deliver, Leonardo spoke to journalists at the Parc des Princes and responded sharply to coach Thomas Tuchel's criticism the day before of the club's transfer activity. Leonardo said that neither he nor the club "appreciated" Tuchel's assertion that the PSG squad had been weakened since they reached the Champions League final in August. "If someone is not happy, if he decides to stay, he must respect either the sports policy or the internal rules," Leonardo said. "You have to understand the moment we are all living through, these are very serious situations. Not understanding this situation, we didn't like it. Now we're going to address it internally." Tuchel complained on Thursday that the club had not done enough ahead of what promises to be an unusually demanding and compressed season. Leonardo responded that the problems created by the coronavirus extended beyond the playing field. "Everybody has lost millions, it's weird to talk about it. Nobody is buying , except in England, which is a world apart", said Leonardo adding that the health crisis had cost PSG almost 100 million euros. It was the first time that Leonardo has publicly criticised the coach, who he inherited when he took over in July 2019. PSG won every domestic trophy available in France last season before losing narrowly to Bayern Munich in August's Champions League final in Lisbon. However, since the end of last season their captain Thiago Silva, all-time top scorer Edinson Cavani, right-back Thomas Meunier, striker Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting and defensive starlet Tanguy Kouassi have left. Apart from making Mauro Icardi's loan move from Inter Milan into a permanent transfer, the only new arrivals are right-back Alessandro Florenzi, on loan from Roma, and third-choice goalkeeper Alexandre Letellier. Tuchel said he wanted new signings. "If we stay like this we can't speak about having the same objectives," the German said. "Perhaps we can do it but we can't ask for the same things from such a reduced squad when we will have to fight with teams like Manchester City, Liverpool and Atletico Madrid, who have all been very strong in the transfer market. "In a season like this, with players who will be playing a lot for their national teams, with the coronavirus, without a pre-season, with a schedule like we have, I am worried that we will pay the price in October, November, December and January." Leonardo said that Tuchel had to be prepared to work with the talent he had. "I also didn't like him saying that this team is weak. We're talking about a huge team," the Brazilian said. "It's not a question of the transfer window, but of form. To stay at this club, you have to be happy, with the desire to suffer for the club, the spirit of sacrifice, even if you're going through a tough moment. If you can sign players, fine. If not, we'll keep going. That's the spirit we're looking for." "We'll try to be creative. I don't know how it's going to end. A lot of things can happen, like nothing. We are living in such a difficult time. This is not the time to buy." The disagreement promises three tense days before the transfer window closes on Monday evening.

Leonardo hits back at Tuchel and says PSG have a 'huge team'

Liverpool's in-form Senegalese forward Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is self-isolating, the club said Friday.

"Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently self-isolating according to the necessary guidelines," Liverpool said in a statement.

"The forward, who started and scored in Monday's 3-1 victory over Arsenal, has displayed minor symptoms of the virus but feels in good health overall.

"However, like with Thiago Alcantara, Liverpool Football Club are - and will continue to - follow all protocols relating to Covid-19 and Mane will self-isolate for the required period of time."

Thiago missed the Arsenal game after his own positive test and he and Mane will both be absent for Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa.

Manager Jurgen Klopp will hope to have both players available when the Reds return to action after the international break in October 17's Merseyside derby at Everton.

Mane, 28, has been in fine form this season, scoring both goals in Liverpool's win over Chelsea before also netting against the Gunners.

His enforced isolation will also affect his international commitments after Mane was named in Senegal's squad for their upcoming friendlies against Morocco and Mauritania.

Liverpool's in-form Senegalese forward Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is self-isolating, the club said Friday. "Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently self-isolating according to the necessary guidelines," Liverpool said in a statement.

Liverpool's in-form Senegalese forward Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is self-isolating, the club said Friday. "Sadio Mane has tested positive for Covid-19 and is currently self-isolating according to the necessary guidelines," Liverpool said in a statement. "The forward, who started and scored in Monday's 3-1 victory over Arsenal, has displayed minor symptoms of the virus but feels in good health overall. "However, like with Thiago Alcantara, Liverpool Football Club are - and will continue to - follow all protocols relating to Covid-19 and Mane will self-isolate for the required period of time." Thiago missed the Arsenal game after his own positive test and he and Mane will both be absent for Sunday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa. Manager Jurgen Klopp will hope to have both players available when the Reds return to action after the international break in October 17's Merseyside derby at Everton. Mane, 28, has been in fine form this season, scoring both goals in Liverpool's win over Chelsea before also netting against the Gunners. His enforced isolation will also affect his international commitments after Mane was named in Senegal's squad for their upcoming friendlies against Morocco and Mauritania.

Liverpool's Sadio Mane tests positive for Covid-19

Footballing world witnessed one of the most fascinating penalty shootouts as AC Milan and Rio Ave took as many as 24 spot kicks during the Europa League qualifying clash at the Estádio do Rio Ave on Friday.

While the match ended 2-2 after the end of extra-time after AC Milan were awarded a last-minute penalty and the Italian giants equalised the scoring courtesy a thumping penalty kick from Hakan Calhanoghlu.&nbsp;

The match ended up in penalty shootout as players approached and kept on scoring one by one. The first penalty miss came from AC Milan’s Colombo but Rio Ave’s Monte missed his spot kick to continue the shootout.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-player-of-the-year-2020-how-many-points-did-lewandowski-messi-ronaldo-acquire-331982" hreflang="en">UEFA Player of the Year 2020: How many points did Lewandowski, Messi, Ronaldo acquire?</a>

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Who said you could go to bed before watching this ⤵️ 
 
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Even the goalkeepers got the chance to take a spot kick but both Donnarumma and Kieszek missed their respective shot as the penalty shootout continued before Aderlan of Rio Ave missed the spot kick in the sudden death as AC Milan advanced to the Europa League 2020-21 season.

However, this was not the longest-ever shootout with the record still being with Namibian Cup in 2005 where a staggering 48 penalty kicks were taken before KK Palace defeated Civics 17-16.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/scandal-hit-firm-in-singapore-says-still-bidding-for-newcastle-reports-331983" hreflang="en">Scandal-hit firm in Singapore says still bidding for Newcastle: Reports</a>

In the Europa League 2020-21 draw, AC Milan were handed a tricky group where they will face the likes of Celtic FC, AC Sparta Praha and LOSC Lille.

Penalties: &nbsp;Bennacer (M) goal, Geraldes (R) goal, Kjær (M) goal, Santos (R) goal, Hernández (M) goal, Jambor (R) goal, Díaz (M) goal, Piazon (R) goal, Çalhanoğlu (M) goal, Filipe Augusto (R) goal, Calabria (M) goal, Gelson (R) goal, Tonali (M) goal, Gabrielzinho (R) goal, Colombo (M) miss, Monte (R) post, Leão (M) goal, Pinto (R) goal, Donnarumma (M) miss, Kieszek (R) miss, Bennacer (M) saved, Geraldes (R) post, Kjær (M) goal, Santos (R) saved. 
&nbsp;

Footballing world witnessed one of the most fascinating penalty shootouts as AC Milan and Rio Ave took as many as 24 spot kicks during the Europa League qualifying clash at the Estádio do Rio Ave on Friday.

Footballing world witnessed one of the most fascinating penalty shootouts as AC Milan and Rio Ave took as many as 24 spot kicks during the Europa League qualifying clash at the Estádio do Rio Ave on Friday. While the match ended 2-2 after the end of extra-time after AC Milan were awarded a last-minute penalty and the Italian giants equalised the scoring courtesy a thumping penalty kick from Hakan Calhanoghlu. The match ended up in penalty shootout as players approached and kept on scoring one by one. The first penalty miss came from AC Milan’s Colombo but Rio Ave’s Monte missed his spot kick to continue the shootout. ALSO READ: UEFA Player of the Year 2020: How many points did Lewandowski, Messi, Ronaldo acquire? Who said you could go to bed before watching this ⤵️ Qualcuno pensava di andare a dormire senza rivedersi la serie 🅘🅝🅕🅘🅝🅘🅣🅐 dei calci di rigore? ⤵️#RioAveMilan #UEL #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/TDJABBrFzV — AC Milan (@acmilan) October 1, 2020 × Even the goalkeepers got the chance to take a spot kick but both Donnarumma and Kieszek missed their respective shot as the penalty shootout continued before Aderlan of Rio Ave missed the spot kick in the sudden death as AC Milan advanced to the Europa League 2020-21 season. However, this was not the longest-ever shootout with the record still being with Namibian Cup in 2005 where a staggering 48 penalty kicks were taken before KK Palace defeated Civics 17-16. ALSO READ: Scandal-hit firm in Singapore says still bidding for Newcastle: Reports In the Europa League 2020-21 draw, AC Milan were handed a tricky group where they will face the likes of Celtic FC, AC Sparta Praha and LOSC Lille. Penalties: Bennacer (M) goal, Geraldes (R) goal, Kjær (M) goal, Santos (R) goal, Hernández (M) goal, Jambor (R) goal, Díaz (M) goal, Piazon (R) goal, Çalhanoğlu (M) goal, Filipe Augusto (R) goal, Calabria (M) goal, Gelson (R) goal, Tonali (M) goal, Gabrielzinho (R) goal, Colombo (M) miss, Monte (R) post, Leão (M) goal, Pinto (R) goal, Donnarumma (M) miss, Kieszek (R) miss, Bennacer (M) saved, Geraldes (R) post, Kjær (M) goal, Santos (R) saved.

Watch: 24 penalty kicks! AC Milan and Rio Ave involved in insane Europa League qualifier match

The UEFA Men’s Player of the Year 2020 award was awarded to Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski as he raked up more points than other top players in contention for the award. The Poland international pipped the likes of Kevin de Bruyne and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for the coveted award.

But how many points did the likes of Lewandowski, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and other top 10 contenders for the UEFA Player of the Year award get?

Lewandowski enjoyed a scintillating season where the lethal forward not only outscored everyone but also bagged as many as five titles with Bayern Munich – Bundesliga, DFB Poka, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and DFB Super Cup – to wrap up a trophy-laden season.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-2020-21-draw-man-united-psg-get-group-of-death-lewandowski-wins-player-of-the-year-331807" hreflang="en">UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw: Man United, PSG get Group of Death; Lewandowski wins Player of the Year</a>

The 31-year-old Bayern Munich striker was followed by Man City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, who won the UEFA Midfielder of the Year award and teammate Manuel Neuer.&nbsp;

While Lewandowski got 477 voting points, second-placed de Bruyne could get only 90 points while Neuer had 66 points to his name.

<h2>UEFA Men's Player of the Year Vote Count:</h2>

<ol>
	<li>Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich) – 477 points</li>
	<li>Kevin de Bruyne (Man City) – 90 points</li>
	<li>Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich) – 66 points</li>
	<li>Lionel Messi (Barcelona) – 53 points</li>
	<li>Neymar (PSG) – 53 points</li>
	<li>Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich) – 41 points&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Kylian Mbappe (PSG) – 39 points</li>
	<li>Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/Liverpool) – 27 points</li>
	<li>Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich) – 26 points</li>
	<li>Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus) – 25 points</li>
</ol>

Talking about Messi and Ronaldo, the former ended up trophyless with Barcelona but had some great stats when it comes to goals and assists. Whereas Ronaldo won the Serie A with Juventus and had a prolific season in front of the goal.&nbsp;

However, Lewandowski was the top scorer in every competition in played as he netted a whopping 55 goals in all competitions. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The UEFA Men’s Player of the Year 2020 award was awarded to Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski as he raked up more points than other top players in contention for the award.

The UEFA Men’s Player of the Year 2020 award was awarded to Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski as he raked up more points than other top players in contention for the award. The Poland international pipped the likes of Kevin de Bruyne and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer for the coveted award. But how many points did the likes of Lewandowski, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and other top 10 contenders for the UEFA Player of the Year award get? Lewandowski enjoyed a scintillating season where the lethal forward not only outscored everyone but also bagged as many as five titles with Bayern Munich – Bundesliga, DFB Poka, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and DFB Super Cup – to wrap up a trophy-laden season. ALSO READ: UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw: Man United, PSG get Group of Death; Lewandowski wins Player of the Year The 31-year-old Bayern Munich striker was followed by Man City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, who won the UEFA Midfielder of the Year award and teammate Manuel Neuer. While Lewandowski got 477 voting points, second-placed de Bruyne could get only 90 points while Neuer had 66 points to his name. UEFA Men's Player of the Year Vote Count: Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich) – 477 points Kevin de Bruyne (Man City) – 90 points Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich) – 66 points Lionel Messi (Barcelona) – 53 points Neymar (PSG) – 53 points Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich) – 41 points Kylian Mbappe (PSG) – 39 points Thiago Alcantara (Bayern Munich/Liverpool) – 27 points Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich) – 26 points Cristiano Ronaldo (Juventus) – 25 points Talking about Messi and Ronaldo, the former ended up trophyless with Barcelona but had some great stats when it comes to goals and assists. Whereas Ronaldo won the Serie A with Juventus and had a prolific season in front of the goal. However, Lewandowski was the top scorer in every competition in played as he netted a whopping 55 goals in all competitions.

UEFA Player of the Year 2020: How many points did Lewandowski, Messi, Ronaldo acquire?

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at Gareth Southgate on Thursday as he called the England manager 'Gary' and questioned his plans for Harry Kane.

Mourinho does not think Tottenham striker Kane should be involved in all three of England's forthcoming friendly against Wales and Nations League fixtures with Belgium and Denmark.

After a gruelling run of fixtures for Tottenham, which continued with a 7-2 win over Maccabi Haifa in the Europa League on Thursday, Mourinho fears Kane could be in danger of burnout.

Southgate recently said Mourinho must look after Kane in April and May with the European Championships around the corner.

With tongue in cheek, Southgate also pointed out that Mourinho had only namechecked England assistant coach Steve Holland as a friend in his comments.

Kane showed why both men want him to play every minute of every game with a hat-trick and an assist in the romp over Maccabi Haifa which booked Tottenham's place in the group stages.

But Mourinho used his interviews after the game to get the final word in, although he made a slip by calling the England boss 'Gary'.

"What I can promise to my friend Steve Holland and for Gary (sic) not to be jealous. For my friend Gary, I can promise that until the end of the season I don't play Harry Kane one minute of any friendly match," Mourinho said.

"His match was a fundamental match for us. A match that means a few million pounds and means that we are in a group phase of a competition that we have ambitions."

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at Gareth Southgate on Thursday as he called the England manager 'Gary' and questioned his plans for Harry Kane. Mourinho does not think Tottenham striker Kane should be involved in all three of England's forthcoming friendly against Wales and Nations League fixtures with Belgium and Denmark.

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho took a swipe at Gareth Southgate on Thursday as he called the England manager 'Gary' and questioned his plans for Harry Kane. Mourinho does not think Tottenham striker Kane should be involved in all three of England's forthcoming friendly against Wales and Nations League fixtures with Belgium and Denmark. After a gruelling run of fixtures for Tottenham, which continued with a 7-2 win over Maccabi Haifa in the Europa League on Thursday, Mourinho fears Kane could be in danger of burnout. Southgate recently said Mourinho must look after Kane in April and May with the European Championships around the corner. With tongue in cheek, Southgate also pointed out that Mourinho had only namechecked England assistant coach Steve Holland as a friend in his comments. Kane showed why both men want him to play every minute of every game with a hat-trick and an assist in the romp over Maccabi Haifa which booked Tottenham's place in the group stages. But Mourinho used his interviews after the game to get the final word in, although he made a slip by calling the England boss 'Gary'. "What I can promise to my friend Steve Holland and for Gary (sic) not to be jealous. For my friend Gary, I can promise that until the end of the season I don't play Harry Kane one minute of any friendly match," Mourinho said. "His match was a fundamental match for us. A match that means a few million pounds and means that we are in a group phase of a competition that we have ambitions."

Mourinho takes swipe at 'Gary' Southgate

The draw for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2020-21</a> was held on Thursday in Nyon, Switzerland as top teams from Europe found out their fate for the upcoming edition of UCL.

Apart from the Champions League 2020-21 draw, the UEFA awards were also announced as players were named the UEFA Defender, Midfielder, Forward and Player of the Year for the previous season.&nbsp;

Defending champions Bayern Munich were drawn in Group A as they will face the likes of Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg and FC Lokomotiv Moscow.

However, the Group of Death was handed to Group H, where the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig and Istanbul Baseksehir.

<h2>UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw in Full:</h2>

Group A: Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg, FC Lokomotic Moscow

Group B: Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donestk, Inter Milan, Borussia Monchengladbach

Group C: FC Porto, Manchester City, Olympiacos FC, Olympique Marseille

Group D: Liverpool FC, Ajax, Atalanta,&nbsp;Midtyjlland

Group E: Sevilla FC, Chelsea FC, FC Krasnodar, Stade Rennes

Group F: FC Zenit St Petersburg, Borussia Dortmund, SS Lazio, Club Brugge

Group G: Juventus, FC Barcelona, FC Dynamo Kyiv, Ferencvarosi

Group H: Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig, Istanbul Basaksehir

<h2>UEFA Awards in Full:</h2>

UEFA Goalkeeper of the Year: Manuel Neur

UEFA Defender of the Year: Joshua Kimmich

UEFA Midfielder of the Year: Kevin de Bruyne

UEFA Forward of the Year: Robert Lewandowski

Men's Coach of the Year: Hansi Flick

UEFA Player of the Year: Robert Lewandowski

&nbsp;

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 was held on Thursday in Nyon, Switzerland as top teams from Europe found out their fate for the upcoming edition of UCL.

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2020-21 was held on Thursday in Nyon, Switzerland as top teams from Europe found out their fate for the upcoming edition of UCL. Apart from the Champions League 2020-21 draw, the UEFA awards were also announced as players were named the UEFA Defender, Midfielder, Forward and Player of the Year for the previous season. Defending champions Bayern Munich were drawn in Group A as they will face the likes of Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg and FC Lokomotiv Moscow. However, the Group of Death was handed to Group H, where the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig and Istanbul Baseksehir. UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw in Full: Group A: Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, FC Salzburg, FC Lokomotic Moscow Group B: Real Madrid, Shakhtar Donestk, Inter Milan, Borussia Monchengladbach Group C: FC Porto, Manchester City, Olympiacos FC, Olympique Marseille Group D: Liverpool FC, Ajax, Atalanta, Midtyjlland Group E: Sevilla FC, Chelsea FC, FC Krasnodar, Stade Rennes Group F: FC Zenit St Petersburg, Borussia Dortmund, SS Lazio, Club Brugge Group G: Juventus, FC Barcelona, FC Dynamo Kyiv, Ferencvarosi Group H: Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, RB Leipzig, Istanbul Basaksehir UEFA Awards in Full: UEFA Goalkeeper of the Year: Manuel Neur UEFA Defender of the Year: Joshua Kimmich UEFA Midfielder of the Year: Kevin de Bruyne UEFA Forward of the Year: Robert Lewandowski Men's Coach of the Year: Hansi Flick UEFA Player of the Year: Robert Lewandowski

UEFA Champions League 2020-21 Draw: Man United, PSG get Group of Death; Lewandowski wins Player of the Year

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax with the 19-year-old USMNT international joining the Catalan club after a splendid Eredivisie 2019-20 season. Dest led Ajax to first place in Eredivisie 2019-20 before the Dutch top-flight league was declared null and void due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Barcelona locked horns with reigning German and European champions Bayern Munich but the Catalan club was successful in signing the young starlet. Earlier, it was reported that Bayern Munich had an agreement with Ajax for the signing of Dest but Barcelona were clever with their officials bid of €21 million (£19m/$25m) – higher than that of Bayern Munich – and agreed personal terms with Dest quickly.&nbsp;

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🇺🇸 The American Dream in Barcelona. 
🔵🔴 <a href="https://twitter.com/sergino_dest?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sergino_dest</a>, welcome to Barça! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DE2TCuler?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DE2TCuler</a> <a href="https://t.co/gq6avTiHq8">pic.twitter.com/gq6avTiHq8</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-asking-for-changes-to-footballs-handball-law-331692" hreflang="en">Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law</a>

A statement from the Liga giants on their official website read: “FC Barcelona and Ajax have reached an agreement for the transfer of Sergiño Dest. The cost of the operation is 21 million euros plus a further five million in variables.

“The player will sign a contract for the next five seasons, through to the end of the 2024/25 season, with a buyout clause set at 400 million euros.

“Sergiño Dest combines many excellent qualities needed in a full back: attacking when called for, solid defensively, unruffled in possession and creative with it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/madrid-miss-hazard-as-vinicius-sneaks-win-over-valladolid-331689" hreflang="en">Madrid miss Hazard as Vinicius sneaks win over Valladolid</a>

“The defender has the ability to take players on and his pace is a virtue going forward and defending. Those qualities will be on display from now on in a Barca shirt, a challenge for a fearless young full-back.”

Dest will look to make the right-back spot his own following the departure of Nelson Semedo to Wolves. 
&nbsp;

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax with the 19-year-old USMNT international joining the Catalan club after a splendid Eredivisie 2019-20 season.

Barcelona on Thursday confirmed the signing of Sergino Dest from Ajax with the 19-year-old USMNT international joining the Catalan club after a splendid Eredivisie 2019-20 season. Dest led Ajax to first place in Eredivisie 2019-20 before the Dutch top-flight league was declared null and void due to COVID-19 pandemic. Barcelona locked horns with reigning German and European champions Bayern Munich but the Catalan club was successful in signing the young starlet. Earlier, it was reported that Bayern Munich had an agreement with Ajax for the signing of Dest but Barcelona were clever with their officials bid of €21 million (£19m/$25m) – higher than that of Bayern Munich – and agreed personal terms with Dest quickly. 🇺🇸 The American Dream in Barcelona. 🔵🔴 @sergino_dest, welcome to Barça! #DE2TCuler pic.twitter.com/gq6avTiHq8 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) October 1, 2020 × ALSO READ: Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law A statement from the Liga giants on their official website read: “FC Barcelona and Ajax have reached an agreement for the transfer of Sergiño Dest. The cost of the operation is 21 million euros plus a further five million in variables. “The player will sign a contract for the next five seasons, through to the end of the 2024/25 season, with a buyout clause set at 400 million euros. “Sergiño Dest combines many excellent qualities needed in a full back: attacking when called for, solid defensively, unruffled in possession and creative with it. ALSO READ: Madrid miss Hazard as Vinicius sneaks win over Valladolid “The defender has the ability to take players on and his pace is a virtue going forward and defending. Those qualities will be on display from now on in a Barca shirt, a challenge for a fearless young full-back.” Dest will look to make the right-back spot his own following the departure of Nelson Semedo to Wolves.

Barcelona sign USMNT full-back Sergino Dest from Ajax

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/uefa-champions-league">UEFA Champions League 2020-21 draw</a> is set to be held at Nyon, Switzerland on Thursday with top clubs from all across the Europe set to find their fate for the group stage. UEFA Champions League (IPL) 2020 fixtures are scheduled to kick-start from October 20.&nbsp;

Defending champions Bayern Munich, along with La Liga winners Real Madrid, Europa League winners Sevilla, Serie A winners Juventus and Premier League champions Liverpool along with Ligue 1 holders Paris Saint-Germain are placed in the Pot 1. Notably, teams in the same pot can’t be drawn in the same group.&nbsp;

Whereas the likes of Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk, Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea are placed in the Pot 2.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-asking-for-changes-to-footballs-handball-law-331692" hreflang="en">Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law</a>

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🔹 Group stage draw | 17:00 CET 🔹 
 
Who are the top 3 teams to avoid!? 🧐<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCLdraw?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCLdraw</a> <a href="https://t.co/WPlbPRXyye">pic.twitter.com/WPlbPRXyye</a>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1311621559304454144?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Here are the details of UCL 2020/21 pots:</h2>

<h2>Pot 1</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Bayern Munich</li>
	<li>Sevilla</li>
	<li>Real Madrid</li>
	<li>Liverpool</li>
	<li>Juventus</li>
	<li>Paris Saint-Germain</li>
	<li>Zenit</li>
	<li>Porto</li>
</ul>

Pot&nbsp;2

<ul>
	<li>Barcelona</li>
	<li>Atlético Madrid</li>
	<li>Manchester City</li>
	<li>Manchester United</li>
	<li>Shakhtar Donetsk</li>
	<li>Borussia Dortmund</li>
	<li>Chelsea</li>
	<li>Ajax</li>
</ul>

Pot 3

<ul>
	<li>Dynamo Kyiv</li>
	<li>RB Leipzig</li>
	<li>Red Bull Salzburg</li>
	<li>Inter</li>
	<li>Olympiacos</li>
	<li>Lazio</li>
	<li>Krasnodar</li>
	<li>Atalanta</li>
</ul>

Pot 4

<ul>
	<li>Lokomotiv Moscow</li>
	<li>Marseille</li>
	<li>Club Brugge</li>
	<li>Mönchengladbach</li>
	<li>İstanbul Başakşehir</li>
	<li>Rennes</li>
	<li>Ferencvaros</li>
	<li>FC Midtjylland</li>
</ul>

<h2>When will the UEFA Champions League Draw take place?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Draw will start from 8.30 PM (IST) onwards.

<h2>Where will be the UEFA Champions League Draw held?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Draw will be held at Nyon, Switzerland.

<h2>Where can the UEFA Champions League Draw be watched online?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Draw will be streamed live via UEFA’s official website, Jio TV and Airtel TV.

<h2>Which channel will telecast the UEFA Champions League Draw on TV?</h2>

The UEFA Champions League Group Stage Draw will be aired live on the Sony Ten 2/HD. 
&nbsp;

The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 draw is set to be held at Nyon, Switzerland on Thursday with top clubs from all across the Europe set to find their fate for the group stage.

The UEFA Champions League 2020-21 draw is set to be held at Nyon, Switzerland on Thursday with top clubs from all across the Europe set to find their fate for the group stage. UEFA Champions League (IPL) 2020 fixtures are scheduled to kick-start from October 20. Defending champions Bayern Munich, along with La Liga winners Real Madrid, Europa League winners Sevilla, Serie A winners Juventus and Premier League champions Liverpool along with Ligue 1 holders Paris Saint-Germain are placed in the Pot 1. Notably, teams in the same pot can’t be drawn in the same group. Whereas the likes of Atletico Madrid, Manchester City, Manchester United, Shakhtar Donetsk, Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea are placed in the Pot 2. ALSO READ: Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law 🔹 Group stage draw | 17:00 CET 🔹 Who are the top 3 teams to avoid!? 🧐#UCLdraw pic.twitter.com/WPlbPRXyye — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) October 1, 2020 × Here are the details of UCL 2020/21 pots: Pot 1 Bayern Munich Sevilla Real Madrid Liverpool Juventus Paris Saint-Germain Zenit Porto Pot 2 Barcelona Atlético Madrid Manchester City Manchester United Shakhtar Donetsk Borussia Dortmund Chelsea Ajax Pot 3 Dynamo Kyiv RB Leipzig Red Bull Salzburg Inter Olympiacos Lazio Krasnodar Atalanta Pot 4 Lokomotiv Moscow Marseille Club Brugge Mönchengladbach İstanbul Başakşehir Rennes Ferencvaros FC Midtjylland When will the UEFA Champions League Draw take place? The UEFA Champions League Draw will start from 8.30 PM (IST) onwards. Where will be the UEFA Champions League Draw held? The UEFA Champions League Draw will be held at Nyon, Switzerland. Where can the UEFA Champions League Draw be watched online? The UEFA Champions League Draw will be streamed live via UEFA’s official website, Jio TV and Airtel TV. Which channel will telecast the UEFA Champions League Draw on TV? The UEFA Champions League Group Stage Draw will be aired live on the Sony Ten 2/HD.

UEFA Champions League Draw: Live streaming, telecast, pots, timings and more

The Premier League is asking football's lawmakers to allow more flexibility and leniency for referees assessing handballs after being told by players and managers that the current regulations are too harsh.

England's top division has fielded complaints after a number of incidents in the opening rounds of the season, including that Eric Dier should not have conceded a penalty for Tottenham against Newcastle on Sunday when a ball came off his outstretched, raised arm.

Despite facing away from the ball, Dier was penalized because his arm was adjudged to be in an unnatural position after jumping to challenge Andy Carroll for the ball.

The penalty,&nbsp;&nbsp;awarded after a VAR review,&nbsp;allowed Callum Wilson to score and secure a 1-1 draw for Newcastle in stoppage time at Tottenham.

"You cannot jump without your hands," Dier told the BBC.

"You cannot defend without using your arms to balance and move so it is what it is."

Premier League referees, though, have to abide by the laws of the game formulated by the International Football Association Board. There is, however, English influence on the panel that first met in the 19th century. The home nations in the United Kingdom -- England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales -- have half of the votes and world governing body FIFA has the other four.

A clarification to the handball law in 2019 stated that hands or arms cannot make a players' "body unnaturally bigger".

The Premier League's Professional Game Match Officials body hopes the Laws of the Game could be updated and will ask IFAB for greater latitude.

Six of the 20 penalties awarded in the opening three rounds of the season have been for handball.

The Premier League has already responded to criticism by encouraging referees to soften their interpretation of handballs while still working within the spirit of the Laws of the Game.

According to a presentation shared within the Premier League, referees have now been told to consider the expected position of the arm,&nbsp;rather than just being outside the body line,&nbsp;when determining whether a handball should be penalised.

"Where the arms are clearly used for balance and/or protection," the presentation slide states, "it is less likely to be penalized."

That is also the case "where it is clear the player does not have the ability to react" and when the arm does not clearly block a direct shot.

The Premier League's interpretation of the law should also see players not penalized if:&nbsp;the "ball travels from close proximity where the player has a limited opportunity to respond." -&nbsp;the "player falls and the hand/arm is between the body and the ground to support the body, but not extended laterally or vertically away from the body."

Based on the Premier League's revised guidance for referees to interpret the laws, Victor Lindelof would not have conceded a penalty for Manchester United in a loss to Crystal Palace this month because his arm was in a natural running position.

The Premier League is asking football's lawmakers to allow more flexibility and leniency for referees assessing handballs after being told by players and managers that the current regulations are too harsh.

The Premier League is asking football's lawmakers to allow more flexibility and leniency for referees assessing handballs after being told by players and managers that the current regulations are too harsh. England's top division has fielded complaints after a number of incidents in the opening rounds of the season, including that Eric Dier should not have conceded a penalty for Tottenham against Newcastle on Sunday when a ball came off his outstretched, raised arm. Despite facing away from the ball, Dier was penalized because his arm was adjudged to be in an unnatural position after jumping to challenge Andy Carroll for the ball. The penalty, awarded after a VAR review, allowed Callum Wilson to score and secure a 1-1 draw for Newcastle in stoppage time at Tottenham. "You cannot jump without your hands," Dier told the BBC. "You cannot defend without using your arms to balance and move so it is what it is." Premier League referees, though, have to abide by the laws of the game formulated by the International Football Association Board. There is, however, English influence on the panel that first met in the 19th century. The home nations in the United Kingdom -- England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales -- have half of the votes and world governing body FIFA has the other four. A clarification to the handball law in 2019 stated that hands or arms cannot make a players' "body unnaturally bigger". The Premier League's Professional Game Match Officials body hopes the Laws of the Game could be updated and will ask IFAB for greater latitude. Six of the 20 penalties awarded in the opening three rounds of the season have been for handball. The Premier League has already responded to criticism by encouraging referees to soften their interpretation of handballs while still working within the spirit of the Laws of the Game. According to a presentation shared within the Premier League, referees have now been told to consider the expected position of the arm, rather than just being outside the body line, when determining whether a handball should be penalised. "Where the arms are clearly used for balance and/or protection," the presentation slide states, "it is less likely to be penalized." That is also the case "where it is clear the player does not have the ability to react" and when the arm does not clearly block a direct shot. The Premier League's interpretation of the law should also see players not penalized if: the "ball travels from close proximity where the player has a limited opportunity to respond." - the "player falls and the hand/arm is between the body and the ground to support the body, but not extended laterally or vertically away from the body." Based on the Premier League's revised guidance for referees to interpret the laws, Victor Lindelof would not have conceded a penalty for Manchester United in a loss to Crystal Palace this month because his arm was in a natural running position.

Premier League asking for changes to football's handball law

Bayern Munich claimed their fifth title of the year on Wednesday as a late Joshua Kimmich goal sealed their 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund to land the German Super Cup.&nbsp;

Hosts Bayern built a 2-0 lead with first-half goals by Corentin Tolisso and Thomas Mueller, only for Erling Braut Haaland to equalise early in the second half after Julian Brandt pulled a Dortmund goal back just before the break.

However, Kimmich settled the matter through sheer determination behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena.

His initial shot was saved by Dortmund goalkeeper Marwin Hitz but the rebound clipped Kimmich's boot and looped in for the winning goal eight minutes from time.

"Joshua is a classy player. The way he chipped that ball in," said Bayern captain Manuel Neuer in admiration.

Having had their record 23-match winning streak ended by a shock defeat at Hoffenheim on Sunday, Bayern bounced back with Kimmich leading the charge.

"As long as I have known him (Kimmich), his mentality is very special.&nbsp;He is well on his way to being one of those players who shape this club," Bayern head coach Hansi Flick told broadcaster ZDF.

Bayern have already won an eighth-straight Bundesliga title, the German Cup, Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup this year.

This is the fourth time in five years they have won the showcase match.

<h2>- Sancho missing -</h2>

Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Buerki and England winger Jadon Sancho missed the flight to Munich with "a respiratory infection", the club said, but both tested negative on Monday for Covid-19.

Flick made five changes from the side which lost 4-1 at Hoffenheim.

Leroy Sane was sidelined by a knee injury, Leon Goretzka rested and Segre Gnabry started on the bench.

Canadian left-back Alphonso Davies moved up to the wing and Tolisso started in central midfield.

The Frenchman gave Bayern the lead when Robert Lewandowski put in a short cross from the right wing and Tolisso side-footed home on 18 minutes.

Mueller grabbed Bayern's second when he headed home after Davies floated in a cross on 32 minutes.

Brandt put Dortmund back in the game five minutes before the break when Benjamin Pavard's loose pass was snapped up by Marco Reus and Brandt finished the move.

It was 2-1 at the break, but Dortmund defender Thomas Meunier fired a golden chance over the bar early in the second half with just Manuel Neuer to beat.

Dortmund drew level when central midfielder Thomas Delaney slid a great pass into Haaland, who showed ice cool finishing to fire past Neuer on 55 minutes.

It was the 20-year-old's 19th goal in 22 games for Dortmund.

With time running out, Kimmich robbed Delaney of possession near the halfway line and sprinted clear with Lewandowski in support.

The pair exchanged passes and although Hitz saved the inital shot, the rebound looped over his head into the Dortmund goal after clipping Kimmich's boot.

The Super Cup was the final game for Bundesliga referee Bibiana Steinhaus, 41, the first female to officiate in one of Europe's top leagues, before retirement.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich claimed their fifth title of the year on Wednesday as a late Joshua Kimmich goal sealed their 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund to land the German Super Cup.

Bayern Munich claimed their fifth title of the year on Wednesday as a late Joshua Kimmich goal sealed their 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund to land the German Super Cup. Hosts Bayern built a 2-0 lead with first-half goals by Corentin Tolisso and Thomas Mueller, only for Erling Braut Haaland to equalise early in the second half after Julian Brandt pulled a Dortmund goal back just before the break. However, Kimmich settled the matter through sheer determination behind closed doors at the Allianz Arena. His initial shot was saved by Dortmund goalkeeper Marwin Hitz but the rebound clipped Kimmich's boot and looped in for the winning goal eight minutes from time. "Joshua is a classy player. The way he chipped that ball in," said Bayern captain Manuel Neuer in admiration. Having had their record 23-match winning streak ended by a shock defeat at Hoffenheim on Sunday, Bayern bounced back with Kimmich leading the charge. "As long as I have known him (Kimmich), his mentality is very special. He is well on his way to being one of those players who shape this club," Bayern head coach Hansi Flick told broadcaster ZDF. Bayern have already won an eighth-straight Bundesliga title, the German Cup, Champions League and the UEFA Super Cup this year. This is the fourth time in five years they have won the showcase match. - Sancho missing - Dortmund goalkeeper Roman Buerki and England winger Jadon Sancho missed the flight to Munich with "a respiratory infection", the club said, but both tested negative on Monday for Covid-19. Flick made five changes from the side which lost 4-1 at Hoffenheim. Leroy Sane was sidelined by a knee injury, Leon Goretzka rested and Segre Gnabry started on the bench. Canadian left-back Alphonso Davies moved up to the wing and Tolisso started in central midfield. The Frenchman gave Bayern the lead when Robert Lewandowski put in a short cross from the right wing and Tolisso side-footed home on 18 minutes. Mueller grabbed Bayern's second when he headed home after Davies floated in a cross on 32 minutes. Brandt put Dortmund back in the game five minutes before the break when Benjamin Pavard's loose pass was snapped up by Marco Reus and Brandt finished the move. It was 2-1 at the break, but Dortmund defender Thomas Meunier fired a golden chance over the bar early in the second half with just Manuel Neuer to beat. Dortmund drew level when central midfielder Thomas Delaney slid a great pass into Haaland, who showed ice cool finishing to fire past Neuer on 55 minutes. It was the 20-year-old's 19th goal in 22 games for Dortmund. With time running out, Kimmich robbed Delaney of possession near the halfway line and sprinted clear with Lewandowski in support. The pair exchanged passes and although Hitz saved the inital shot, the rebound looped over his head into the Dortmund goal after clipping Kimmich's boot. The Super Cup was the final game for Bundesliga referee Bibiana Steinhaus, 41, the first female to officiate in one of Europe's top leagues, before retirement.

Bayern win German Super Cup to lift fifth title in 2020

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