Naby Keita has started to show he can add creativity to Liverpool's midfield but Jurgen Klopp may question his squad's strength in depth despite securing two Premier League wins in four days.&nbsp;

Klopp is likely to revert to his tried-and-trusted first choices at Bournemouth on Saturday, having been a little lucky on Wednesday to emerge with a 3-1 win at Burnley after making seven changes to his line-up.

There were good reasons for so many changes - the match came hot on the heels of Sunday's dramatic late derby victory over Everton, at the start of a frantic month that features home games against Napoli, Manchester United and Arsenal.

In addition, full-back Andy Robertson and forward Sadio Mane were injured, and so Klopp would have had to shuffle his players around even if rotation had not been on his mind.

Yet Liverpool were second-best for the opening hour at Turf Moor against opponents without a victory since September 30, and only turned the match around in the final 30 minutes, when Klopp brought on Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino.

It was evidence of just how important Salah, Firmino and Sane are to the Liverpool cause, even if they have not necessarily been at their best this season. 
During Liverpool's struggles on Wednesday, though, the performance of Keita did give Klopp reason to be positive.

The Guinea midfielder's impact has been restricted by injury problems since his arrival from RB Leipzig in July but he is starting to look at home in the English game.

His creativity is likely to be crucial, given that Liverpool have been short of such a player following the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in January and because of the long-term knee injury suffered by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in April.

Keita makes his case 

Of the seven players brought into the starting line-up by Klopp at Burnley, Keita made the strongest case to retain his place at Bournemouth, where there will have to be at least one change, with defender Joe Gomez sidelined for up to six weeks after fracturing his leg.

At Turf Moor, Keita showed he was willing to fight for the ball but also provided forward impetus once he got it, almost scoring with a shot that Joe Hart saved brilliantly.

"He started the season brilliantly and obviously then getting an injury set him back a little bit. But you can see how good a player he is," said captain Jordan Henderson.

"That shot with the left foot and the save from Hart was fantastic. In his overall play he is comfortable on the ball and he helps build up play from the back. He drives the ball forward, which is big for us. I thought he was outstanding."

As a whole, though, Liverpool lack the strength in depth of Manchester City, the team they will have to surpass in order to become champions of England for the first time since 1990.&nbsp;

City had a rather more comfortable night at Watford on Tuesday, despite only winning 2-1, as Pep Guardiola rotated his squad.

It raises the question as to whether Liverpool can afford to go full out for both the Champions League and Premier League. Fail to get the right result against Napoli in their final European group-stage game next Tuesday, and the decision will be made for them.

Henderson, though, is remaining positive.

"The games are coming thick and fast, a lot of games in a short space of time but we showed we can use the squad and still perform to the level we know we are capable of and win games - and that's a big plus for us," he said.&nbsp;

Naby Keita has started to show he can add creativity to Liverpool's midfield but Jurgen Klopp may question his squad's strength in depth despite securing two Premier League wins in four days.

Naby Keita has started to show he can add creativity to Liverpool's midfield but Jurgen Klopp may question his squad's strength in depth despite securing two Premier League wins in four days. Klopp is likely to revert to his tried-and-trusted first choices at Bournemouth on Saturday, having been a little lucky on Wednesday to emerge with a 3-1 win at Burnley after making seven changes to his line-up. There were good reasons for so many changes - the match came hot on the heels of Sunday's dramatic late derby victory over Everton, at the start of a frantic month that features home games against Napoli, Manchester United and Arsenal. In addition, full-back Andy Robertson and forward Sadio Mane were injured, and so Klopp would have had to shuffle his players around even if rotation had not been on his mind. Yet Liverpool were second-best for the opening hour at Turf Moor against opponents without a victory since September 30, and only turned the match around in the final 30 minutes, when Klopp brought on Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino. It was evidence of just how important Salah, Firmino and Sane are to the Liverpool cause, even if they have not necessarily been at their best this season. During Liverpool's struggles on Wednesday, though, the performance of Keita did give Klopp reason to be positive. The Guinea midfielder's impact has been restricted by injury problems since his arrival from RB Leipzig in July but he is starting to look at home in the English game. His creativity is likely to be crucial, given that Liverpool have been short of such a player following the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in January and because of the long-term knee injury suffered by Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in April. Keita makes his case Of the seven players brought into the starting line-up by Klopp at Burnley, Keita made the strongest case to retain his place at Bournemouth, where there will have to be at least one change, with defender Joe Gomez sidelined for up to six weeks after fracturing his leg. At Turf Moor, Keita showed he was willing to fight for the ball but also provided forward impetus once he got it, almost scoring with a shot that Joe Hart saved brilliantly. "He started the season brilliantly and obviously then getting an injury set him back a little bit. But you can see how good a player he is," said captain Jordan Henderson. "That shot with the left foot and the save from Hart was fantastic. In his overall play he is comfortable on the ball and he helps build up play from the back. He drives the ball forward, which is big for us. I thought he was outstanding." As a whole, though, Liverpool lack the strength in depth of Manchester City, the team they will have to surpass in order to become champions of England for the first time since 1990. City had a rather more comfortable night at Watford on Tuesday, despite only winning 2-1, as Pep Guardiola rotated his squad. It raises the question as to whether Liverpool can afford to go full out for both the Champions League and Premier League. Fail to get the right result against Napoli in their final European group-stage game next Tuesday, and the decision will be made for them. Henderson, though, is remaining positive. "The games are coming thick and fast, a lot of games in a short space of time but we showed we can use the squad and still perform to the level we know we are capable of and win games - and that's a big plus for us," he said.

Do Liverpool have squad depth to compete on two fronts?

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday was fined 8,000 pounds ($10,183) for running onto the field of play after Divock Origi scored a 96th-minute winner against Everton at Anfield.

The German had admitted a charge of improper conduct and accepted the standard penalty after his wild celebration on Sunday.

"I couldn't avoid it obviously... if there was no rule we as managers would do it every week. That's what rules are for and if you break rules you have to be fined for it," he told reporters.

"I don't think anyone thought it was massively wrong. It happened, a fine, I'll pay it, no problem."

Klopp said his forward Sadio Mane faced a late fitness test to be in contention for Wednesday's Premier League trip to Burnley after sustaining a foot injury.

Senegal international Mane suffered a cut that required several stitches during Sunday's 1-0 victory over Everton in the Merseyside derby but Klopp refused to rule out the 26-year-old.

"Sadio really had an awful cut on his foot. It needed to be stitched. He is okay but walking around here now in flip-flops -- and you don't play in flip-flops," he said.

"That means in this moment he is not ready, but we will see later."

Liverpool could also be without defender Andy Robertson who suffered a dead leg.

"With Robbo it is not that serious as with Sadio, but we need to have a look," said the manager.

Klopp was asked about the form of forward Roberto Firmino, who has gone off the boil this season, scoring just three goals in 14 league appearances.

"It's completely normal. It's not that he's playing his best football in every second. You have moments when you fly and moments when you have to work and come again," Klopp said.

"Nothing to worry about, it's a normal football season... we all have to go through this and everything will be fine."

Liverpool are second in the league with 36 points from 14 games while Burnley are second from bottom with nine points.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday was fined 8,000 pounds ($10,183) for running onto the field of play after Divock Origi scored a 96th-minute winner against Everton at Anfield.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp on Tuesday was fined 8,000 pounds ($10,183) for running onto the field of play after Divock Origi scored a 96th-minute winner against Everton at Anfield. The German had admitted a charge of improper conduct and accepted the standard penalty after his wild celebration on Sunday. "I couldn't avoid it obviously... if there was no rule we as managers would do it every week. That's what rules are for and if you break rules you have to be fined for it," he told reporters. "I don't think anyone thought it was massively wrong. It happened, a fine, I'll pay it, no problem." Klopp said his forward Sadio Mane faced a late fitness test to be in contention for Wednesday's Premier League trip to Burnley after sustaining a foot injury. Senegal international Mane suffered a cut that required several stitches during Sunday's 1-0 victory over Everton in the Merseyside derby but Klopp refused to rule out the 26-year-old. "Sadio really had an awful cut on his foot. It needed to be stitched. He is okay but walking around here now in flip-flops -- and you don't play in flip-flops," he said. "That means in this moment he is not ready, but we will see later." Liverpool could also be without defender Andy Robertson who suffered a dead leg. "With Robbo it is not that serious as with Sadio, but we need to have a look," said the manager. Klopp was asked about the form of forward Roberto Firmino, who has gone off the boil this season, scoring just three goals in 14 league appearances. "It's completely normal. It's not that he's playing his best football in every second. You have moments when you fly and moments when you have to work and come again," Klopp said. "Nothing to worry about, it's a normal football season... we all have to go through this and everything will be fine." Liverpool are second in the league with 36 points from 14 games while Burnley are second from bottom with nine points.

Klopp fined for running onto pitch in Merseyside derby

Jurgen Klopp admits he is frustrated that the high expectations surrounding Liverpool's Premier League title bid have overshadowed their strong start to the season.

Klopp's third-placed side have won eight of their 11 matches in an unbeaten opening to the league campaign.

But despite their position among the leading title contenders, Liverpool have endured criticism of late after some erratic displays both domestically and in the Champions League.

A midweek loss at Red Star Belgrade was especially underwhelming, but Reds boss Klopp believes the doubters are wrong to question his team.

Aware that champions Manchester City and in-form Chelsea -- both also unbeaten in the league -- have garnered more praise than Liverpool, Klopp launched a passionate defence of his side on Friday, claiming only winning the title for the first time since 1990 will be enough to silence the critics.

"The season so far-wise, points-wise in the Premier League, has been really successful," Klopp told reporters.

"But it doesn't really feel like that because there are two reasons in comparison with last year: free-flowing football in a few games and Man City and maybe Chelsea and a few others play a very good season as well.

"It feels a bit like this season can only be a success if we become champions.

"Our competitors are the champions of last year (Manchester City), the champions of two years ago (Chelsea), a more refreshed Arsenal and a more experienced Tottenham and Manchester United.

"That's a really tough job but we have no problem with that, we go for everything. We have to build on our situation, we have to get better, to get more confidence out of the season."

'Not easy game'

Klopp admitted the 2-0 Champions League defeat to Red Star Belgrade "was a rather massive knock which was not expected".

"Now we have to react for us in the right way, not only on Sunday, but in general."

Fulham head to Anfield on Sunday having slid to the foot of the table after a miserable run of five consecutive defeats.

But Klopp bristled at suggestions Liverpool should thrash the west Londoners.

"I would be really an idiot - a few people think I am but not that much - if I would talk about any goal difference before that game," Klopp said.

"This is a really strange situation for Fulham, I can really imagine how they feel. Their football is good, they caused (Manchester) City a lot of problems.

"You will never score a goal against a team like Fulham if you go to win the game with the wrong attitude and think about scoring, scoring, scoring. This game is a big challenge for all of us.

"If somebody goes there and expects an easy game then please stay at home. It will not be, it's a tough job to do."

Liverpool midfielders Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita are both in line for a return to action following their respective hamstring injuries.

Jurgen Klopp admits he is frustrated that the high expectations surrounding Liverpool's Premier League title bid have overshadowed their strong start to the season.

Jurgen Klopp admits he is frustrated that the high expectations surrounding Liverpool's Premier League title bid have overshadowed their strong start to the season. Klopp's third-placed side have won eight of their 11 matches in an unbeaten opening to the league campaign. But despite their position among the leading title contenders, Liverpool have endured criticism of late after some erratic displays both domestically and in the Champions League. A midweek loss at Red Star Belgrade was especially underwhelming, but Reds boss Klopp believes the doubters are wrong to question his team. Aware that champions Manchester City and in-form Chelsea -- both also unbeaten in the league -- have garnered more praise than Liverpool, Klopp launched a passionate defence of his side on Friday, claiming only winning the title for the first time since 1990 will be enough to silence the critics. "The season so far-wise, points-wise in the Premier League, has been really successful," Klopp told reporters. "But it doesn't really feel like that because there are two reasons in comparison with last year: free-flowing football in a few games and Man City and maybe Chelsea and a few others play a very good season as well. "It feels a bit like this season can only be a success if we become champions. "Our competitors are the champions of last year (Manchester City), the champions of two years ago (Chelsea), a more refreshed Arsenal and a more experienced Tottenham and Manchester United. "That's a really tough job but we have no problem with that, we go for everything. We have to build on our situation, we have to get better, to get more confidence out of the season." 'Not easy game' Klopp admitted the 2-0 Champions League defeat to Red Star Belgrade "was a rather massive knock which was not expected". "Now we have to react for us in the right way, not only on Sunday, but in general." Fulham head to Anfield on Sunday having slid to the foot of the table after a miserable run of five consecutive defeats. But Klopp bristled at suggestions Liverpool should thrash the west Londoners. "I would be really an idiot - a few people think I am but not that much - if I would talk about any goal difference before that game," Klopp said. "This is a really strange situation for Fulham, I can really imagine how they feel. Their football is good, they caused (Manchester) City a lot of problems. "You will never score a goal against a team like Fulham if you go to win the game with the wrong attitude and think about scoring, scoring, scoring. This game is a big challenge for all of us. "If somebody goes there and expects an easy game then please stay at home. It will not be, it's a tough job to do." Liverpool midfielders Jordan Henderson and Naby Keita are both in line for a return to action following their respective hamstring injuries.

Only winning title will silence critics says Jurgen Klopp

Mourinho's fight and Salah's strike summarise Premier League weekend action

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has given his verdict after Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez missed an 86th-minute penalty as the Premier League champions were held to a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/citys-mahrez-misses-late-penalty-in-stalemate-at-liverpool-170067">0-0 draw</a> at Liverpool on Sunday.

Klopp said that he is "fine" with the result. "I am fine. It is a very intense, unbelievable challenge to face Manchester City always - I've said that before - and as the last game of an intense period, it makes the challenge even bigger, so I am really happy with what the boys did today."

He said that the Reds were lucky in the situation as it "is really difficult" to respond when the opponent is a club like Manchester City.

"(Riyad Mahrez's penalty miss is) not the most important penalty in the history of football because it was not in," said Klopp after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/citys-mahrez-misses-late-penalty-in-stalemate-at-liverpool-170067">goalless draw</a>.

"We were lucky in that situation but we deserved it, a bit of luck, because with the performance the boys showed today, it's just good," he added.

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The boss on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVMCI</a> result, today's performance, the late penalty, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCFC</a>'s attack, the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PL</a> table and more... <a href="https://t.co/3X38hn0eQy">https://t.co/3X38hn0eQy</a>
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"To respond is really important, but to respond is really difficult when the next opponent is Manchester City," Klopp concluded.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has given his verdict after Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez missed an 86th-minute penalty as the Premier League champions were held to a 0-0 draw at Liverpool on Sunday.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has given his verdict after Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez missed an 86th-minute penalty as the Premier League champions were held to a 0-0 draw at Liverpool on Sunday. Klopp said that he is "fine" with the result. "I am fine. It is a very intense, unbelievable challenge to face Manchester City always - I've said that before - and as the last game of an intense period, it makes the challenge even bigger, so I am really happy with what the boys did today." He said that the Reds were lucky in the situation as it "is really difficult" to respond when the opponent is a club like Manchester City. "(Riyad Mahrez's penalty miss is) not the most important penalty in the history of football because it was not in," said Klopp after the goalless draw. "We were lucky in that situation but we deserved it, a bit of luck, because with the performance the boys showed today, it's just good," he added. The boss on #LIVMCI result, today's performance, the late penalty, #MCFC's attack, the #PL table and more... https://t.co/3X38hn0eQy — Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 7, 2018 × "To respond is really important, but to respond is really difficult when the next opponent is Manchester City," Klopp concluded.

To respond is difficult when opponent is Manchester City: Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez missed an 86th minute penalty as the Premier League champions were held to a 0-0 draw at Liverpool in their top of the table clash on Sunday.

City substitute Leroy Sane was brought down in the area by the lunging Virgil van Dijk but Algerian Mahrez blasted the spot kick high over the bar at Anfield.

The result leaves the pair level with Chelsea on 20 points although City stay top on goal difference with Juergen Klopp's Liverpool side in third place.

City fans may ask why Mahrez, who has now missed five of his last eight top-flight penalties, took the spot kick but while the visitors had the best chances a draw was not an unfitting result for a much-anticipated game that failed to truly sparkle.

The 51 percent possession allowed to City was the lowest they have enjoyed since Pep Guardiola joined the club in 2016 and indicated how much the two teams cancelled each other out.

After 18 goals in the teams' four meetings last season, in the Premier and Champions League, it was clear both managers had learnt lessons about how to limit each other's strengths.

Liverpool, who remain unbeaten in their last 18 home games against City, came out roaring and dominated the opening 10 minutes but Guardiola's side weathered that early storm, slowed the game down and frustrated the hosts.

"If it is an open game at Anfield you don't have a chance," said Guardiola, who acknowledged his approach had been to slow the pace of the game and limit space for Klopp's side.

City's wide men Raheem Sterling and Mahrez played deeper than usual and limited the forward runs from Liverpool's full-backs, while Guardiola's defence avoided the high line which proved so disastrous in defeats at Anfield last season.

Liverpool did a good job of compressing the space in front of their defence, making it harder for the likes of City midfielders David Silva and Bernardo Silva to create.

Klopp's front three had been deadly in the two home games against City last season but the service to them was restricted and the trio of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane could create little from their limited opportunities.

The best chances fell to Salah but the Egyptian showed again that he is lacking last season's sharpness, blasting well off target when found in space in the 69th minute.

Mahrez twice forced good saves from Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker after the break but then failed to find the target from the penalty spot when the three points were up for grabs.

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez missed an 86th minute penalty as the Premier League champions were held to a 0-0 draw at Liverpool in their top of the table clash on Sunday.

Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez missed an 86th minute penalty as the Premier League champions were held to a 0-0 draw at Liverpool in their top of the table clash on Sunday. City substitute Leroy Sane was brought down in the area by the lunging Virgil van Dijk but Algerian Mahrez blasted the spot kick high over the bar at Anfield. The result leaves the pair level with Chelsea on 20 points although City stay top on goal difference with Juergen Klopp's Liverpool side in third place. City fans may ask why Mahrez, who has now missed five of his last eight top-flight penalties, took the spot kick but while the visitors had the best chances a draw was not an unfitting result for a much-anticipated game that failed to truly sparkle. The 51 percent possession allowed to City was the lowest they have enjoyed since Pep Guardiola joined the club in 2016 and indicated how much the two teams cancelled each other out. After 18 goals in the teams' four meetings last season, in the Premier and Champions League, it was clear both managers had learnt lessons about how to limit each other's strengths. Liverpool, who remain unbeaten in their last 18 home games against City, came out roaring and dominated the opening 10 minutes but Guardiola's side weathered that early storm, slowed the game down and frustrated the hosts. "If it is an open game at Anfield you don't have a chance," said Guardiola, who acknowledged his approach had been to slow the pace of the game and limit space for Klopp's side. City's wide men Raheem Sterling and Mahrez played deeper than usual and limited the forward runs from Liverpool's full-backs, while Guardiola's defence avoided the high line which proved so disastrous in defeats at Anfield last season. Liverpool did a good job of compressing the space in front of their defence, making it harder for the likes of City midfielders David Silva and Bernardo Silva to create. Klopp's front three had been deadly in the two home games against City last season but the service to them was restricted and the trio of Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane could create little from their limited opportunities. The best chances fell to Salah but the Egyptian showed again that he is lacking last season's sharpness, blasting well off target when found in space in the 69th minute. Mahrez twice forced good saves from Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker after the break but then failed to find the target from the penalty spot when the three points were up for grabs.

City's Mahrez misses late penalty in stalemate at Liverpool

Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City are destined to win the&nbspChampions League&nbspone day, even if they fail to overcome a 3-0 quarter-final first-leg deficit against Liverpool on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, the Reds are sweating on the fitness of striker Mohamed Salah.

A hitherto spectacular second season under Guardiola for City has unravelled in the past week as they were thrashed at Anfield in the first leg, and then let a 2-0 lead slip with the chance to seal the Premier&nbspLeaguetitle against Manchester United in a 3-2 derby defeat on Saturday.

Even if City go out, Guardiola could badly do with them winning at least the match to restore battered morale ahead of a tough&nbspleague&nbspmatch with in-form Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend with the Premier&nbspLeague&nbsptitle theirs for the taking.

The trouble for Guardiola is even if Salah -- who scored his 38th goal of the season in the first leg before limping off -- is not able to play a role, Liverpool have enough firepower up front in the shape of Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane to hurt City.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said on Monday Salah was more of a 'yes' than a 'no' for the trip to the Etihad, though whether he plays will only be decided later on Tuesday.

More encouraging for Liverpool fans is that Guardiola has lost six times in the knockout stages and four of the teams who bested him went on to lift the trophy.

The Spaniard believes that were his team to pull off an extraordinary comeback it would take Abu Dhabi-backed City -- who have only reached the last four of the competition once -- to another level.

"I know we are judged on results, but on the performances my team is extraordinary. It is not comparable for many others, it's top," Guardiola, whose side still boast a 13-point lead at the top of the Premier&nbspLeague, said.

"They are exceptional, so I will be close to them no matter what happens between now and the end of the season. It's a joy to be manager of this team, even three days ago the way we played."

- 'I'm never nervous' -

One area of hope for Guardiola is that Liverpool's Achilles heel has been its defence although Dutchman Virgil van Dijk has added some steel since joining from Southampton.

The Dutch captain will be examined to the full at the Etihad, though, where Liverpool were thrashed 5-0 earlier in the season, albeit before Van Dijk joined from Southampton.

Klopp's men were also crushed 4-1 by Tottenham and involved in thrilling 3-3 draws at Arsenal and Sevilla as they were routinely torn apart on their toughest travels, before the addition of the tall Dutchman.

Van Dijk, though, says he is not nervous at all about the impending clash -- indeed, if anything, the 26-year-old admits to being too relaxed.

"I always have been, sometimes a little too much," &nbspvan Dijk told journalists.

"Sometimes that cost me back in the day. What we do as players is something you need to enjoy.

"I'm never nervous.

"I'm just excited. I think, 'Look where I am. Playing for the semi-finals of the&nbspChampions&nbspLeague&nbspwith my team. Just enjoy it and love it.'"

Van Dijk will do well to remain so relaxed given he faces a City attack bolstered by the likes of Sergio Aguero, who missed the traumatic United defeat, and Kevin De Bruyne, who only came on as a second-half substitute.&nbsp

If Guardiola is to seek inspiration in terms of a miraculous comeback, then United set him an example last Saturday of how quickly a match can turn on its head.

Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City are destined to win the Champions League one day, even if they fail to overcome a 3-0 quarter-final first-leg deficit against Liverpool

Pep Guardiola insists Manchester City are destined to win the&nbspChampions League&nbspone day, even if they fail to overcome a 3-0 quarter-final first-leg deficit against Liverpool on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Reds are sweating on the fitness of striker Mohamed Salah. A hitherto spectacular second season under Guardiola for City has unravelled in the past week as they were thrashed at Anfield in the first leg, and then let a 2-0 lead slip with the chance to seal the Premier&nbspLeaguetitle against Manchester United in a 3-2 derby defeat on Saturday. Even if City go out, Guardiola could badly do with them winning at least the match to restore battered morale ahead of a tough&nbspleague&nbspmatch with in-form Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend with the Premier&nbspLeague&nbsptitle theirs for the taking. The trouble for Guardiola is even if Salah -- who scored his 38th goal of the season in the first leg before limping off -- is not able to play a role, Liverpool have enough firepower up front in the shape of Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane to hurt City. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said on Monday Salah was more of a 'yes' than a 'no' for the trip to the Etihad, though whether he plays will only be decided later on Tuesday. More encouraging for Liverpool fans is that Guardiola has lost six times in the knockout stages and four of the teams who bested him went on to lift the trophy. The Spaniard believes that were his team to pull off an extraordinary comeback it would take Abu Dhabi-backed City -- who have only reached the last four of the competition once -- to another level. "I know we are judged on results, but on the performances my team is extraordinary. It is not comparable for many others, it's top," Guardiola, whose side still boast a 13-point lead at the top of the Premier&nbspLeague, said. "They are exceptional, so I will be close to them no matter what happens between now and the end of the season. It's a joy to be manager of this team, even three days ago the way we played." - 'I'm never nervous' - One area of hope for Guardiola is that Liverpool's Achilles heel has been its defence although Dutchman Virgil van Dijk has added some steel since joining from Southampton. The Dutch captain will be examined to the full at the Etihad, though, where Liverpool were thrashed 5-0 earlier in the season, albeit before Van Dijk joined from Southampton. Klopp's men were also crushed 4-1 by Tottenham and involved in thrilling 3-3 draws at Arsenal and Sevilla as they were routinely torn apart on their toughest travels, before the addition of the tall Dutchman. Van Dijk, though, says he is not nervous at all about the impending clash -- indeed, if anything, the 26-year-old admits to being too relaxed. "I always have been, sometimes a little too much," &nbspvan Dijk told journalists. "Sometimes that cost me back in the day. What we do as players is something you need to enjoy. "I'm never nervous. "I'm just excited. I think, 'Look where I am. Playing for the semi-finals of the&nbspChampions&nbspLeague&nbspwith my team. Just enjoy it and love it.'" Van Dijk will do well to remain so relaxed given he faces a City attack bolstered by the likes of Sergio Aguero, who missed the traumatic United defeat, and Kevin De Bruyne, who only came on as a second-half substitute. If Guardiola is to seek inspiration in terms of a miraculous comeback, then United set him an example last Saturday of how quickly a match can turn on its head.

Champions League: Pep Guardiola dreams of miracle, Klopp of holding City at bay

Jurgen Klopp blamed his players for becoming embroiled in a fight at Swansea City as they lost their unbeaten 18-match run to the Premier League&#39;s bottom club.

It was Liverpool&#39;s first defeat since October, but the points were priceless for Swansea, who cut the gap between themselves and those above the relegation places to just three points.

He said, &quot;I am more frustrated about the performance than the result.

&quot;We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn&rsquo;t play how we wanted to play.&quot;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/epl-liverpool-suffers-surprise-defeat-against-swansea-30417" target="_blank">EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea</a>

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pictures-five-facts-on-alexis-sanchez-647">In pictures: Five facts on Alexis Sanchez</a>

&quot;We didn&#39;t keep the right positions we needed to, to cause them problems and didn&rsquo;t stretch them.

&quot;We gave them the opportunity to score and then we did exactly what Swansea wanted.

&quot;They didn&rsquo;t need to play, they needed to fight and we did exactly what they wanted and their confidence grew.&quot;

Klopp added: &quot;Swansea knew that to win today they needed our help and unfortunately we gave it to them.

&ldquo;They did the right things to deserve to win a game like this tonight and we didn&rsquo;t deserve it.

We could have equalised at the end, but didn&rsquo;t have that luck.&quot;

&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp: "We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn’t play how we wanted to play"

Jurgen Klopp blamed his players for becoming embroiled in a fight at Swansea City as they lost their unbeaten 18-match run to the Premier League's bottom club. It was Liverpool's first defeat since October, but the points were priceless for Swansea, who cut the gap between themselves and those above the relegation places to just three points. He said, "I am more frustrated about the performance than the result. "We were just not good enough, especially in the first half. We didn’t play how we wanted to play." EPL: Liverpool suffers surprise defeat against Swansea In pictures: Five facts on Alexis Sanchez "We didn't keep the right positions we needed to, to cause them problems and didn’t stretch them. "We gave them the opportunity to score and then we did exactly what Swansea wanted. "They didn’t need to play, they needed to fight and we did exactly what they wanted and their confidence grew." Klopp added: "Swansea knew that to win today they needed our help and unfortunately we gave it to them. “They did the right things to deserve to win a game like this tonight and we didn’t deserve it. We could have equalised at the end, but didn’t have that luck."

'Frustrated about performance,' says Jurgen Klopp

Manchester United put a smile back on Jose Mourinho&#39;s face as fine goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard sealed a 2-0 win over Everton, while Liverpool left it late to snatch a 2-1 victory at Burnley.

Martial started in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku and the United forward broke the deadlock in the 57th minute at Goodison Park.

Paul Pogba teed up Martial on the edge of the area and he stroked a sublime finish into the top corner for his ninth goal of the season.

Having struggled towards the end of 2017, United were more commanding in their first match of the new year and Lingard wrapped up the points with a superb solo strike in the 81st minute.

The winger beat several Everton players before curling home from 20 yards for his fourth goal in his last five appearances.

It was a welcome tonic for Mourinho amid reports the United manager is beginning to lose the support of his players after branding them &quot;childish&quot; and &quot;immature&quot; and admitting the squad needs major investment to catch City.

United moved back into second place in the Premier League after ending a frustrating run of three successive draws during the congested Christmas period.

&quot;Our pride, our effort, everything was top class and on top of it we played very well. It wasn&#39;t a performance of tired boys, with the worst possible calendar,&quot; Mourinho said.

&quot;Jesse is more consistent, he is adaptable, he is going in a good direction.&quot;

United are 12 points behind leaders Manchester City, who host Watford on Tuesday, and two points ahead of third placed Chelsea, who play Arsenal tomorrow.

With Philippe Coutinho and Mohamed Salah missing due to thigh and groin injuries respectively and Roberto Firmino left on the bench, Sadio Mane was the lone member of Liverpool&#39;s &#39;Fab Four&#39; to start at rain-lashed Turf Moor.

Senegal winger Mane showed Liverpool can thrive without his star team-mates as he opened the scoring in the 61st minute, hammering home from the edge of the area for his eighth club goal this season.

Burnley equalised with just three minutes left as Sam Vokes flicked on and Johann Gudmundsson pounced to slot home.

But Liverpool&#39;s Dejan Lovren headed on a free-kick four minutes into stoppage-time and Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan poked home from close-range.

Liverpool&#39;s third successive win extended their unbeaten league run to 13 games as they cemented their place in the top four.

&quot;A very difficult game, the weather made it so hard, windy, rainy,&quot; Klopp said.

&quot;This is one of the toughest places to play all season. Did we deserve to win? I don&#39;t care. We got the three points.&quot;

Stoke manager Mark Hughes faced calls for his sacking after a 1-0 home defeat against Newcastle.

Stoke&#39;s latest lacklustre display piled pressure on Hughes, whose gamble of fielding a weakened team in Saturday&#39;s 5-0 thrashing at Chelsea proved an unwise move.

Newcastle took a deserved lead in the 73rd minute when Ayoze Perez stabbed past Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland from close-range.

That triggered chants for Hughes&#39;s dismissal from Stoke fans, with a &#39;Hughes out&#39; banner held aloft in the stands.

Stoke have won once in their last six games and sit two points above the relegation zone.

High standards

Asked if he feared the sack, a defiant Hughes said: &quot;Who else is going to do it?

&quot;In terms of the knowledge of the group and the progress in my time here, I&#39;m the best person to do it.&quot;

Algeria duo Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani inspired Leicester&#39;s 3-0 win over Huddersfield.

Claude Puel&#39;s side took the lead through Mahrez in the 53rd minute, the winger meeting Marc Albrighton&#39;s cross with a well-taken volley for his eighth goal of the season.

With Leicester striker Jamie Vardy sidelined by a groin injury, Islam Slimani who marked only his second league start this season with his first league goal since April -- a chipped finish in the 60th minute.

Albrighton&#39;s 90th minute goal capped a good afternoon for Leicester, who ended a four-match winless run.

Callum Wilson&#39;s second goal in three games earned Bournemouth a 2-2 draw at south coast rivals Brighton.&nbsp;

Manchester United beat Everton 2-0, Liverpool beat Burnley 2-1

Manchester United put a smile back on Jose Mourinho's face as fine goals from Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard sealed a 2-0 win over Everton, while Liverpool left it late to snatch a 2-1 victory at Burnley. Martial started in the absence of the injured Romelu Lukaku and the United forward broke the deadlock in the 57th minute at Goodison Park. Paul Pogba teed up Martial on the edge of the area and he stroked a sublime finish into the top corner for his ninth goal of the season. Having struggled towards the end of 2017, United were more commanding in their first match of the new year and Lingard wrapped up the points with a superb solo strike in the 81st minute. The winger beat several Everton players before curling home from 20 yards for his fourth goal in his last five appearances. It was a welcome tonic for Mourinho amid reports the United manager is beginning to lose the support of his players after branding them "childish" and "immature" and admitting the squad needs major investment to catch City. United moved back into second place in the Premier League after ending a frustrating run of three successive draws during the congested Christmas period. "Our pride, our effort, everything was top class and on top of it we played very well. It wasn't a performance of tired boys, with the worst possible calendar," Mourinho said. "Jesse is more consistent, he is adaptable, he is going in a good direction." United are 12 points behind leaders Manchester City, who host Watford on Tuesday, and two points ahead of third placed Chelsea, who play Arsenal tomorrow. With Philippe Coutinho and Mohamed Salah missing due to thigh and groin injuries respectively and Roberto Firmino left on the bench, Sadio Mane was the lone member of Liverpool's 'Fab Four' to start at rain-lashed Turf Moor. Senegal winger Mane showed Liverpool can thrive without his star team-mates as he opened the scoring in the 61st minute, hammering home from the edge of the area for his eighth club goal this season. Burnley equalised with just three minutes left as Sam Vokes flicked on and Johann Gudmundsson pounced to slot home. But Liverpool's Dejan Lovren headed on a free-kick four minutes into stoppage-time and Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan poked home from close-range. Liverpool's third successive win extended their unbeaten league run to 13 games as they cemented their place in the top four. "A very difficult game, the weather made it so hard, windy, rainy," Klopp said. "This is one of the toughest places to play all season. Did we deserve to win? I don't care. We got the three points." Stoke manager Mark Hughes faced calls for his sacking after a 1-0 home defeat against Newcastle. Stoke's latest lacklustre display piled pressure on Hughes, whose gamble of fielding a weakened team in Saturday's 5-0 thrashing at Chelsea proved an unwise move. Newcastle took a deserved lead in the 73rd minute when Ayoze Perez stabbed past Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland from close-range. That triggered chants for Hughes's dismissal from Stoke fans, with a 'Hughes out' banner held aloft in the stands. Stoke have won once in their last six games and sit two points above the relegation zone. High standards Asked if he feared the sack, a defiant Hughes said: "Who else is going to do it? "In terms of the knowledge of the group and the progress in my time here, I'm the best person to do it." Algeria duo Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani inspired Leicester's 3-0 win over Huddersfield. Claude Puel's side took the lead through Mahrez in the 53rd minute, the winger meeting Marc Albrighton's cross with a well-taken volley for his eighth goal of the season. With Leicester striker Jamie Vardy sidelined by a groin injury, Islam Slimani who marked only his second league start this season with his first league goal since April -- a chipped finish in the 60th minute. Albrighton's 90th minute goal capped a good afternoon for Leicester, who ended a four-match winless run. Callum Wilson's second goal in three games earned Bournemouth a 2-2 draw at south coast rivals Brighton.

EPL roundup: United lift Mourinho, Liverpool leave it late

Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool to stay motivated to reach their target of a place in next season&#39;s Champions League by the end of the season.

Klopp has acknowledged ahead of Liverpool&#39;s clash with bottom side Swansea at Anfield on Tuesday that a Premier League title challenge is beyond them given they trail leaders Manchester City by 20 points.

But the German believes there is still plenty for the fourth-placed Reds to play for and they should not get complacent just because City are so far ahead.

&quot;We have to qualify for the Champions League. We have to finish as high as possible,&quot; Klopp said.

&quot;It looks like we could be second, third or fourth this year, that&#39;s a fantastic situation. Not the dream but a fantastic situation.&nbsp;

&quot;That&#39;s what we are working on and for this we have to improve in all departments.

&quot;This year, I don&#39;t think that anyone apart from Manchester City and maybe Manchester United are thinking too much about how they can win the league.

&quot;In a very difficult league, performance-wise we are really consistent so far. If we stay consistent and avoid our mistakes, mistakes like in the 3-3 draw with Arsenal, we will win much more games than we lose or draw.

&quot;As it was and so it will be against Swansea, we have to perform first of all and then we have to see how the other team can react.&quot;

Even though Swansea are at the foot of the table, Klopp does not want his players to assume the result will be a foregone conclusion.

&quot;They are under pressure and that&#39;s clear because they fight for the league, 100 per cent, and that will not change before Boxing Day,&quot; Klopp added.

&quot;But we will be ready and we will perform, if possible, like against Arsenal but avoid the mistakes we made.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&#39;t really remember the game from last year, to be honest. I remember that we lost it. But that&#39;s not the plan!&quot;

Step by step 
Klopp confirmed Liverpool will be without captain Jordan Henderson after he limped out of their 3-3 draw with Arsenal last Friday.

Defender Joel Matip could be fit enough to feature after he recently returning to training following a muscle injury while striker Daniel Sturridge has recovered from illness.

Alberto Moreno (ankle) and Nathanial Clyne (back) remain on the sidelines.

Swansea caretaker manager Leon Britton will take charge of his second game following the sacking of Paul Clement last week.

Britton is a modern-day Swansea great with more than 500 appearances to his name, and guided the club to a 1-1 draw in his first match against Crystal Palace.

A match against free-scoring Liverpool at Anfield, however, will present a somewhat more difficult prospect for the South Wales club.

Swansea striker Jordan Ayew admits the draw against Palace, in which he scored, has helped them take at least some confidence into the trip to Merseyside.

&quot;We all have a job to do. I think we responded well,&quot; Ayew said. &quot;We will take it day by day and see what happens in the future.

&quot;We will do our best to get something out of the game against Liverpool. We will build step by step and things will get better. It is important for us to get a good result.&quot;

Swansea will give a fitness test to striker Wilfried Bony (hamstring) and midfielder Leroy Fer (back), who both missed the game against Palace.

Liverpool are currently fourth in the league

Jurgen Klopp has urged Liverpool to stay motivated to reach their target of a place in next season's Champions League by the end of the season. Klopp has acknowledged ahead of Liverpool's clash with bottom side Swansea at Anfield on Tuesday that a Premier League title challenge is beyond them given they trail leaders Manchester City by 20 points. But the German believes there is still plenty for the fourth-placed Reds to play for and they should not get complacent just because City are so far ahead. "We have to qualify for the Champions League. We have to finish as high as possible," Klopp said. "It looks like we could be second, third or fourth this year, that's a fantastic situation. Not the dream but a fantastic situation. "That's what we are working on and for this we have to improve in all departments. "This year, I don't think that anyone apart from Manchester City and maybe Manchester United are thinking too much about how they can win the league. "In a very difficult league, performance-wise we are really consistent so far. If we stay consistent and avoid our mistakes, mistakes like in the 3-3 draw with Arsenal, we will win much more games than we lose or draw. "As it was and so it will be against Swansea, we have to perform first of all and then we have to see how the other team can react." Even though Swansea are at the foot of the table, Klopp does not want his players to assume the result will be a foregone conclusion. "They are under pressure and that's clear because they fight for the league, 100 per cent, and that will not change before Boxing Day," Klopp added. "But we will be ready and we will perform, if possible, like against Arsenal but avoid the mistakes we made. "I don't really remember the game from last year, to be honest. I remember that we lost it. But that's not the plan!" Step by step Klopp confirmed Liverpool will be without captain Jordan Henderson after he limped out of their 3-3 draw with Arsenal last Friday. Defender Joel Matip could be fit enough to feature after he recently returning to training following a muscle injury while striker Daniel Sturridge has recovered from illness. Alberto Moreno (ankle) and Nathanial Clyne (back) remain on the sidelines. Swansea caretaker manager Leon Britton will take charge of his second game following the sacking of Paul Clement last week. Britton is a modern-day Swansea great with more than 500 appearances to his name, and guided the club to a 1-1 draw in his first match against Crystal Palace. A match against free-scoring Liverpool at Anfield, however, will present a somewhat more difficult prospect for the South Wales club. Swansea striker Jordan Ayew admits the draw against Palace, in which he scored, has helped them take at least some confidence into the trip to Merseyside. "We all have a job to do. I think we responded well," Ayew said. "We will take it day by day and see what happens in the future. "We will do our best to get something out of the game against Liverpool. We will build step by step and things will get better. It is important for us to get a good result." Swansea will give a fitness test to striker Wilfried Bony (hamstring) and midfielder Leroy Fer (back), who both missed the game against Palace.

Klopp: Premier League title beyond us, play for Champions League place

Jurgen Klopp admitted on Tuesday that he got caught up in the heat of the moment after Liverpool conceded a late penalty to draw at home with Everton.

The Liverpool boss is known for his animated reactions but his behaviour came under extra scrutiny after a tetchy television interview minutes after Everton secured a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday with a spot-kick he felt should not have been given.

Klopp`s cantankerous mood did not improve in his press conference later when his request for a show of hands from those who disagreed with him was met with the majority of the room responding.

However, the German insists he was just offering a genuine response and has no regrets about how it played out.

&quot;I would give the same interview now,&quot; he said. &quot;The information I had to give would be the same but now I am completely relaxed, but it was five minutes after the game and I was not relaxed.&quot;

&quot;It is nothing. I didn`t use any words I have to take back. I don`t like it but I am pretty sure I cannot change it because I felt like this in this moment and I am not an actor. I cannot act differently.&quot;

Klopp`s team selection -- with Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino on the bench -- came under scrutiny after Everton claimed a point, but he has been rotating his players for several weeks to keep them fresh during a busy period.

Last year Liverpool fell apart in January, winning just one FA Cup game, as injuries scuppered an unlikely title bid. With Champions League football to contend with this season, Klopp is trying to avoid a repeat scenario.

So far he has made 59 changes to his starting 11 this season. Only Manchester United in 2002 have made more in Premier League history at this stage of the campaign.

&quot;If we had the squad last year we would have done it last year,&quot; said Klopp, set to make more changes for the visit of West Brom on Wednesday.

&quot;You cannot play the same 11 players all the time until four are injured and then you hope the other four who come in -- who are quality but have no rhythm -- will perform for you. 
&quot;That is not likely.&quot;

Klopp insists he was just offering a genuine response and has no regrets about how it played out

Jurgen Klopp admitted on Tuesday that he got caught up in the heat of the moment after Liverpool conceded a late penalty to draw at home with Everton. The Liverpool boss is known for his animated reactions but his behaviour came under extra scrutiny after a tetchy television interview minutes after Everton secured a 1-1 draw at Anfield on Sunday with a spot-kick he felt should not have been given. Klopp`s cantankerous mood did not improve in his press conference later when his request for a show of hands from those who disagreed with him was met with the majority of the room responding. However, the German insists he was just offering a genuine response and has no regrets about how it played out. "I would give the same interview now," he said. "The information I had to give would be the same but now I am completely relaxed, but it was five minutes after the game and I was not relaxed." "It is nothing. I didn`t use any words I have to take back. I don`t like it but I am pretty sure I cannot change it because I felt like this in this moment and I am not an actor. I cannot act differently." Klopp`s team selection -- with Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino on the bench -- came under scrutiny after Everton claimed a point, but he has been rotating his players for several weeks to keep them fresh during a busy period. Last year Liverpool fell apart in January, winning just one FA Cup game, as injuries scuppered an unlikely title bid. With Champions League football to contend with this season, Klopp is trying to avoid a repeat scenario. So far he has made 59 changes to his starting 11 this season. Only Manchester United in 2002 have made more in Premier League history at this stage of the campaign. "If we had the squad last year we would have done it last year," said Klopp, set to make more changes for the visit of West Brom on Wednesday. "You cannot play the same 11 players all the time until four are injured and then you hope the other four who come in -- who are quality but have no rhythm -- will perform for you. "That is not likely."

Jurgen Klopp admits passions ruled after derby draw

Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a brace on his return from suspension for Real Madrid, as Tottenham Hotspur ended their Wembley jinx and Liverpool were held on their Champions League comeback on Wednesday.

Real have sorely missed their Portuguese superstar as he serves a five-match domestic ban for pushing a referee.

But he wasted no time in making his towering presence felt against APOEL Nicosia, scoring after just 12 minutes from Gareth Bale&#39;s low cross, and then doubling his tally from the penalty spot before Sergio Ramos&#39;s overhead kick rounded off the cosy 3-0 win.

Ronaldo has now struck 12 times in his last six Champions League games.

&quot;He is the best in the world. We know he will always score goals,&quot; said Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane.

&quot;With a bit more luck today he could have scored four. Cristiano has so many goals in him and we feel it.&quot;

&quot;Hopefully he stays in form. You can&#39;t question the levels he reaches every year,&quot; added Ramos.

The titleholders top Group H with Tottenham, who ended their woeful Wembley run with an impressive Harry Kane-inspired 3-1 win over Borussia Dortmund.

Already scarred by damaging Wembley defeats in the Champions League and FA Cup semi-finals last term, Tottenham had lost to Chelsea and drawn with Burnley this season, sparking alarmist talk that they were jinxed at the hallowed north London venue.

But, after losing eight of their previous 12 matches at Wembley, Kane&#39;s predatory finishing ensured Tottenham finally enjoyed a night to remember in their temporary lodgings.

Son Heung-Min&#39;s first goal of the season put Tottenham ahead early on with Andriy Yarmolenko conjuring a sublime equaliser.

Kane, who scored twice in Saturday&#39;s win at Everton, restored Tottenham&#39;s advantage before the interval and wrapped up the victory with his second goal after half-time.

The only blemish for Spurs was a late sending off for a second bookable offence for Jan Vertonghen, who swung his forearm into Mario Gotze&#39;s face.

&quot;It was so important to win, we are so happy. We increased our level in the second half and were very clinical,&quot; Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said.

&quot;It is more than three points. The team is more mature now. Harry Kane was fantastic.&quot;

Costly Firmino miss 
At Anfield, Roberto Firmino&#39;s first-half penalty miss proved costly for Liverpool as Joaquin Correa scored a dramatic equaliser to grab Sevilla a 2-2 draw.

Anfield was in jubilant mood as the English club welcomed back Champions League football after a two-year absence, but it took Sevilla just four minutes to dampen the enthusiasm.

After Wissam Ben Yedder had given the Spanish side an early lead, goals from Firmino and Mohamed Salah put Liverpool ahead, only for Firmino to miss a penalty.

On the hour, Sevilla manager Eduardo Berizzo was dismissed for throwing the ball away from Liverpool&#39;s Joe Gomez as he tried to take a throw-in, but his disappointment was eased, thanks to Correa, on 72 minutes.

&quot;Of course I&#39;m not happy with the result but I&#39;m happy with a big part of the game,&quot; said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp.

&quot;A lot of times when good teams play each other, the games are kind of boring, but this game was the opposite. And that was due to the desire, the passion, the greed of my team.&quot;

Liverpool and Sevilla were joined on one point in Group E by Spartak Moscow and Maribor, who drew 1-1 in Slovenia.

Manchester City ran out the biggest winners of the night with a 4-0 rout of Feyenoord in Rotterdam courtesy of goals from Sergio Aguero, Gabriel Jesus and John Stones&#39; double.

City coach Pep Guardiola commented: &quot;We did not play back... We were aggressive... We had the legs to run on the side, especially on the right and created the chances. Enough to win the game comfortably.&quot;

Shakhtar Donetsk beat Napoli 2-1 to share the summit in Group F.

French champions Monaco were held 1-1 at competition newcomers RB Leipzig in Germany as Besiktas topped Group G with a 3-1 win at Porto. 
&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo grabbed a brace on his return from suspension for Real Madrid, as Tottenham Hotspur ended their Wembley jinx and Liverpool were held on their Champions League comeback on Wednesday. Real have sorely missed their Portuguese superstar as he serves a five-match domestic ban for pushing a referee. But he wasted no time in making his towering presence felt against APOEL Nicosia, scoring after just 12 minutes from Gareth Bale's low cross, and then doubling his tally from the penalty spot before Sergio Ramos's overhead kick rounded off the cosy 3-0 win. Ronaldo has now struck 12 times in his last six Champions League games. "He is the best in the world. We know he will always score goals," said Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane. "With a bit more luck today he could have scored four. Cristiano has so many goals in him and we feel it." "Hopefully he stays in form. You can't question the levels he reaches every year," added Ramos. The titleholders top Group H with Tottenham, who ended their woeful Wembley run with an impressive Harry Kane-inspired 3-1 win over Borussia Dortmund. Already scarred by damaging Wembley defeats in the Champions League and FA Cup semi-finals last term, Tottenham had lost to Chelsea and drawn with Burnley this season, sparking alarmist talk that they were jinxed at the hallowed north London venue. But, after losing eight of their previous 12 matches at Wembley, Kane's predatory finishing ensured Tottenham finally enjoyed a night to remember in their temporary lodgings. Son Heung-Min's first goal of the season put Tottenham ahead early on with Andriy Yarmolenko conjuring a sublime equaliser. Kane, who scored twice in Saturday's win at Everton, restored Tottenham's advantage before the interval and wrapped up the victory with his second goal after half-time. The only blemish for Spurs was a late sending off for a second bookable offence for Jan Vertonghen, who swung his forearm into Mario Gotze's face. "It was so important to win, we are so happy. We increased our level in the second half and were very clinical," Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said. "It is more than three points. The team is more mature now. Harry Kane was fantastic." Costly Firmino miss At Anfield, Roberto Firmino's first-half penalty miss proved costly for Liverpool as Joaquin Correa scored a dramatic equaliser to grab Sevilla a 2-2 draw. Anfield was in jubilant mood as the English club welcomed back Champions League football after a two-year absence, but it took Sevilla just four minutes to dampen the enthusiasm. After Wissam Ben Yedder had given the Spanish side an early lead, goals from Firmino and Mohamed Salah put Liverpool ahead, only for Firmino to miss a penalty. On the hour, Sevilla manager Eduardo Berizzo was dismissed for throwing the ball away from Liverpool's Joe Gomez as he tried to take a throw-in, but his disappointment was eased, thanks to Correa, on 72 minutes. "Of course I'm not happy with the result but I'm happy with a big part of the game," said Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp. "A lot of times when good teams play each other, the games are kind of boring, but this game was the opposite. And that was due to the desire, the passion, the greed of my team." Liverpool and Sevilla were joined on one point in Group E by Spartak Moscow and Maribor, who drew 1-1 in Slovenia. Manchester City ran out the biggest winners of the night with a 4-0 rout of Feyenoord in Rotterdam courtesy of goals from Sergio Aguero, Gabriel Jesus and John Stones' double. City coach Pep Guardiola commented: "We did not play back... We were aggressive... We had the legs to run on the side, especially on the right and created the chances. Enough to win the game comfortably." Shakhtar Donetsk beat Napoli 2-1 to share the summit in Group F. French champions Monaco were held 1-1 at competition newcomers RB Leipzig in Germany as Besiktas topped Group G with a 3-1 win at Porto.

Champions League: Ronaldo back in style for Real, Spurs end Wembley jinx

Hull&#39;s resurgence under new manager Marco Silva continued as goals from Alfred N&#39;Diaye and Oumar Niasse secured a 2-0 victory which leaves Liverpool still waiting for their first league win of 2017.

Whatever the future holds for N&#39;Diaye on Humberside, he is unlikely to have many easier goalscoring opportunities than the one goalkeeper Simon Mignolet gifted him in the 44th minute at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday.

Mignolet dropped Harry Maguire&#39;s header from Kamil Grosicki&#39;s right-wing corner, and although he was pressured by Abel Hernandez, it should have been a routine save.

Instead, the ball fell at the feet of N&#39;Diaye who added to the growing concerns facing Reds boss Jurgen Klopp as he still awaits his first league victory of the calendar year.

There was nothing the goalkeeper could do with the second goal, on 84 minutes, however as Andrea Ranocchia eased a spell of pressure by punting the ball forward and substitute Niasse shrugged of Joel Matip before finishing from a dozen or so yards.

Fourth placed Liverpool have won only once in their last 10 games in all competitions, while Hull move up to 18th place in their battle to avoid relegation.&nbsp;

Hull had actually faced problems even before kick-off, when defender Michael Dawson was injured warming-up and Italian Ranocchia stepped up from the bench to make his first start.&nbsp;

But Liverpool, boasting a talented forward line that featured Sadio Mane for the first time since the start of last month, toiled to test home goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic.

Frustrations

On one of the rare occasions they were able to do so, from a 22nd minute cross from Roberto Firmino, the Swiss international fumbled his attempted clearance, presenting Philippe Coutinho with the best chance of the game so far.

However, the Brazilian struck a downwards shot which bounced high, enabling Jakupovic to turn it around for a corner.

Matip summed up Liverpool frustrations when he rose unmarked to meet a Coutinho corner but failed to find the target with his 15-yard header and the visitors were soon trailing at the interval.

Liverpool&#39;s players were sent out before the start of the second half a good two minutes before their opponents and their early play looked more lively as won a series of corners.

One of those, from James Milner on the left, was snatched at by Mane at the far post, with Matip also trying to make contact before Hull cleared.

Milner spied the Hull goal a few minutes later, after a right-wing attack had broken down, but succeeded only in lofting a tame shot towards the top corner for Jakupovic to catch.

The Hull keeper faced a far stiffer test just before the hour when Coutinho&#39;s far-post cross was met by Mane, out jumping Andy Robertson for an excellent header which Jakupovic did well to tip over.

Lucas and Matip had shots blocked in the same attack, from yet another corner, but there were warning signs at the other end that Liverpool&#39;s defence would be susceptible to the counter.

First, Tom Huddlestone neatly played through Hernandez although the forward could do little more than flick an attempt into the side-netting under pressure.

Hernandez was guilty of a more glaring miss moments later, allowing Mignolet to block at his feet, after a superb pass from Grosicki.&nbsp;

Coutinho produced an equally bad miss, flashing a shot wide with the goal beckoning, after Milner&#39;s effort had been cleared off the line by Maguire.

(AFP)

Goals from Alfred N'Diaye and Oumar Niasse secured Hull a 2-0 victory, leaving Liverpool waiting for their first league win of 2017

Hull's resurgence under new manager Marco Silva continued as goals from Alfred N'Diaye and Oumar Niasse secured a 2-0 victory which leaves Liverpool still waiting for their first league win of 2017. Whatever the future holds for N'Diaye on Humberside, he is unlikely to have many easier goalscoring opportunities than the one goalkeeper Simon Mignolet gifted him in the 44th minute at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday. Mignolet dropped Harry Maguire's header from Kamil Grosicki's right-wing corner, and although he was pressured by Abel Hernandez, it should have been a routine save. Instead, the ball fell at the feet of N'Diaye who added to the growing concerns facing Reds boss Jurgen Klopp as he still awaits his first league victory of the calendar year. There was nothing the goalkeeper could do with the second goal, on 84 minutes, however as Andrea Ranocchia eased a spell of pressure by punting the ball forward and substitute Niasse shrugged of Joel Matip before finishing from a dozen or so yards. Fourth placed Liverpool have won only once in their last 10 games in all competitions, while Hull move up to 18th place in their battle to avoid relegation. Hull had actually faced problems even before kick-off, when defender Michael Dawson was injured warming-up and Italian Ranocchia stepped up from the bench to make his first start. But Liverpool, boasting a talented forward line that featured Sadio Mane for the first time since the start of last month, toiled to test home goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic. Frustrations On one of the rare occasions they were able to do so, from a 22nd minute cross from Roberto Firmino, the Swiss international fumbled his attempted clearance, presenting Philippe Coutinho with the best chance of the game so far. However, the Brazilian struck a downwards shot which bounced high, enabling Jakupovic to turn it around for a corner. Matip summed up Liverpool frustrations when he rose unmarked to meet a Coutinho corner but failed to find the target with his 15-yard header and the visitors were soon trailing at the interval. Liverpool's players were sent out before the start of the second half a good two minutes before their opponents and their early play looked more lively as won a series of corners. One of those, from James Milner on the left, was snatched at by Mane at the far post, with Matip also trying to make contact before Hull cleared. Milner spied the Hull goal a few minutes later, after a right-wing attack had broken down, but succeeded only in lofting a tame shot towards the top corner for Jakupovic to catch. The Hull keeper faced a far stiffer test just before the hour when Coutinho's far-post cross was met by Mane, out jumping Andy Robertson for an excellent header which Jakupovic did well to tip over. Lucas and Matip had shots blocked in the same attack, from yet another corner, but there were warning signs at the other end that Liverpool's defence would be susceptible to the counter. First, Tom Huddlestone neatly played through Hernandez although the forward could do little more than flick an attempt into the side-netting under pressure. Hernandez was guilty of a more glaring miss moments later, allowing Mignolet to block at his feet, after a superb pass from Grosicki. Coutinho produced an equally bad miss, flashing a shot wide with the goal beckoning, after Milner's effort had been cleared off the line by Maguire. (AFP)

Liverpool stumble at Hull as title bid appears near collapse

Jurgen Klopp, the manager who has brightened the Premier League with his quick wit and off-beat remarks, displayed his dark side after Liverpool dropped two precious points at Sunderland.&nbsp;

The 2-2 draw against a team struggling in the relegation zone was undoubtedly a setback for Liverpool because teams with title aspirations win at places like the Stadium of Light, as leaders Chelsea did just a fortnight ago.&nbsp;

But goals from Daniel Sturridge and Sadio Mane proved insufficient as Liverpool twice squandered leads by conceding two penalties, converted with his customary coolness by Jermain Defoe.&nbsp;

Klopp did not like what he witnessed and did not hide his emotions.&nbsp;

&quot;Sorry about my mood,&quot; he said at the end of his assessment of Monday&#39;s draw, which left Liverpool second, five points behind leaders Chelsea.&nbsp;

While criticism of referees is normally the first port of call for managers seeking excuses for disappointing results such as this, Klopp has rarely taken that easy route.&nbsp;

This time though he blamed Anthony Taylor for awarding the free-kick that was handled by Mane to give Sunderland their second penalty and he confronted the referee on the pitch afterwards.

&quot;It is hard to accept. If you see it again, there was no contact,&quot; the normally affable German said. &quot;I saw it in the game and the fourth official saw it.&nbsp;

&quot;It&rsquo;s not the worst mistake in the world and I don&#39;t want to say it is, but it&#39;s hard.&quot;&nbsp;

Such comments are unlike Klopp and suggest he may be feeling some of the pressure involved in chasing a team with Chelsea&#39;s recent impeccable record.&nbsp;

A more valid excuse would have been the fixture list that left Liverpool facing three games in seven days while Chelsea&#39;s three come in the space of 10 days.&nbsp;

However, Klopp said: &quot;I am the wrong person to ask. I have absolutely no influence on the fixtures. It is like it is and somebody decided like this, so there is nothing to say about this.&quot;

Point pleases Moyes

Liverpool did not look weary for the opening 25 minutes as they took the lead and could have added further goals before the first equaliser.&nbsp;

But Klopp&#39;s team appeared off the pace after the interval and failed to hang on to the lead given to them by Mane.&nbsp;

The manager said: &quot;I thought we started really well and then we lost concentration, which is not usual for us, but has happened before.&nbsp;

&quot;It could be because of the fixtures, I&rsquo;m not sure. Usually I would say we could have done better, but I am not sure if we could have done better.&nbsp;

&quot;I don&rsquo;t know exactly if we could have done better because I was not in the shooting boots.&quot;

The mood of Sunderland manager David Moyes was very different, although this point did not lift them out of the bottom three. &nbsp;

&quot;I honestly thought the players raised the supporters by the way they got up to Liverpool, how they put them under pressure, how they pressed them,&quot; said Moyes.

&quot;Maybe if I was a German manager, you might praise that. If I&#39;d been German you might praise me for doing something different.&nbsp;

&ldquo;I thought we did well. We stuck at it as much as we could and tried to make it hard for them.&rdquo;

(AFP)

He did not like what he saw on the pitch, and he did not hide his emotions

Jurgen Klopp, the manager who has brightened the Premier League with his quick wit and off-beat remarks, displayed his dark side after Liverpool dropped two precious points at Sunderland. The 2-2 draw against a team struggling in the relegation zone was undoubtedly a setback for Liverpool because teams with title aspirations win at places like the Stadium of Light, as leaders Chelsea did just a fortnight ago. But goals from Daniel Sturridge and Sadio Mane proved insufficient as Liverpool twice squandered leads by conceding two penalties, converted with his customary coolness by Jermain Defoe. Klopp did not like what he witnessed and did not hide his emotions. "Sorry about my mood," he said at the end of his assessment of Monday's draw, which left Liverpool second, five points behind leaders Chelsea. While criticism of referees is normally the first port of call for managers seeking excuses for disappointing results such as this, Klopp has rarely taken that easy route. This time though he blamed Anthony Taylor for awarding the free-kick that was handled by Mane to give Sunderland their second penalty and he confronted the referee on the pitch afterwards. "It is hard to accept. If you see it again, there was no contact," the normally affable German said. "I saw it in the game and the fourth official saw it. "It’s not the worst mistake in the world and I don't want to say it is, but it's hard." Such comments are unlike Klopp and suggest he may be feeling some of the pressure involved in chasing a team with Chelsea's recent impeccable record. A more valid excuse would have been the fixture list that left Liverpool facing three games in seven days while Chelsea's three come in the space of 10 days. However, Klopp said: "I am the wrong person to ask. I have absolutely no influence on the fixtures. It is like it is and somebody decided like this, so there is nothing to say about this." Point pleases Moyes Liverpool did not look weary for the opening 25 minutes as they took the lead and could have added further goals before the first equaliser. But Klopp's team appeared off the pace after the interval and failed to hang on to the lead given to them by Mane. The manager said: "I thought we started really well and then we lost concentration, which is not usual for us, but has happened before. "It could be because of the fixtures, I’m not sure. Usually I would say we could have done better, but I am not sure if we could have done better. "I don’t know exactly if we could have done better because I was not in the shooting boots." The mood of Sunderland manager David Moyes was very different, although this point did not lift them out of the bottom three. "I honestly thought the players raised the supporters by the way they got up to Liverpool, how they put them under pressure, how they pressed them," said Moyes. "Maybe if I was a German manager, you might praise that. If I'd been German you might praise me for doing something different. “I thought we did well. We stuck at it as much as we could and tried to make it hard for them.” (AFP)

Premier League: Klopp displays dark side after Sunderland draw

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes a little more luck on the injury front is all that is separating his team from Premier League leaders Chelsea as the Reds prepare to face Stoke City on Tuesday.

The Anfield club spent Christmas in second place in the Premier League table but trailed Chelsea by six points as they struggle to stay in touch with Antonio Conte&#39;s in-form side.

Liverpool have only lost twice all season but are currently missing the influential Philippe Coutinho as they prepare for the first of two home games before the end of the year.

&quot;I am pretty sure that until now Chelsea are maybe the team that have had the most luck with injuries. We lost Phil and Daniel (Sturridge) and Danny Ings in difficult moments when you really could use them,&quot; Klopp told Sky Sports News.

&quot;If it&#39;s Hazard and Costa at Chelsea, is it the same afterwards?&quot;

Coutinho is not likely to return before the new year due to an ankle injury while defender Joel Matip is also struggling as the Reds look forward to welcoming Stoke and then Pep Guardiola&#39;s Manchester City to Merseyside over the next week.

&quot;We cannot rush the situation and we don&#39;t want to rush it. We have to accept the more or less bigger steps in his improvement with this serious injury,&quot; Klopp said of Coutinho.

&quot;Whenever he is back, the season is long enough that he can help us. We cannot rush it just because there are a few games now. That cannot have an influence on our decisions.&quot;

Klopp, who had his squad in for training on Christmas Day despite the extra 24 hours to prepare for the visit of Stoke, could stick with an unchanged starting line-up as Liverpool look to build on successive wins at Middlesbrough and Everton.

Simon Mignolet should keep his place in goal after recording clean sheets in these matches as Liverpool look to maintain their impressive record at home.

They are unbeaten in nine home games in all competitions this season and haven&#39;t lost at Anfield since Stoke won 1-0 there in the EFL Cup semi-final second leg on January 26 -- Liverpool eventually won that tie on penalties.

&#39;Be positive&#39;&nbsp; 
Mid-table Stoke head to Merseyside having failed to win in three matches, including a 2-2 draw at home to Leicester City in their last outing when they squandered a two-goal lead.

Stoke could not have asked for a tougher festive period, with this game being followed by a trip to Chelsea on New Year&#39;s Eve but Hughes is backing his team to spring a surprise.

&quot;We are under no illusions as to how good they both are and how difficult the matches will be for us, but we have to go into the games with real belief,&quot; said Hughes.&nbsp;

&quot;Not many people are thinking we have a chance of gaining positive results but that certainly isn&#39;t the case within our camp.

&quot;Of course they have players who can hurt us, but we have players who can hurt them too. We went to Liverpool last year and beat them and we also got our first point at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League so we know we can go to these places and be positive.&quot;

The game will see Wales midfielder Joe Allen return to Anfield for the first time since moving to Stoke in a &pound;13 million ($15.9m, 15.2m euros) deal in the close season.

&quot;I don&#39;t think he&#39;s going to be turning up there with the intention, &#39;I&#39;ll show everybody they were wrong -- I feel bitter about my time there and how I was allowed to leave&#39;&quot;, said Hughes, who is without the banned Marko Arnautovic.

&quot;Clubs move players on. That&#39;s football. I think players always want to do well when they go back to a club, but he has nothing to prove.&quot;

(AFP) 
&nbsp;

Liverpool are six points short of league leaders Chelsea

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp believes a little more luck on the injury front is all that is separating his team from Premier League leaders Chelsea as the Reds prepare to face Stoke City on Tuesday. The Anfield club spent Christmas in second place in the Premier League table but trailed Chelsea by six points as they struggle to stay in touch with Antonio Conte's in-form side. Liverpool have only lost twice all season but are currently missing the influential Philippe Coutinho as they prepare for the first of two home games before the end of the year. "I am pretty sure that until now Chelsea are maybe the team that have had the most luck with injuries. We lost Phil and Daniel (Sturridge) and Danny Ings in difficult moments when you really could use them," Klopp told Sky Sports News. "If it's Hazard and Costa at Chelsea, is it the same afterwards?" Coutinho is not likely to return before the new year due to an ankle injury while defender Joel Matip is also struggling as the Reds look forward to welcoming Stoke and then Pep Guardiola's Manchester City to Merseyside over the next week. "We cannot rush the situation and we don't want to rush it. We have to accept the more or less bigger steps in his improvement with this serious injury," Klopp said of Coutinho. "Whenever he is back, the season is long enough that he can help us. We cannot rush it just because there are a few games now. That cannot have an influence on our decisions." Klopp, who had his squad in for training on Christmas Day despite the extra 24 hours to prepare for the visit of Stoke, could stick with an unchanged starting line-up as Liverpool look to build on successive wins at Middlesbrough and Everton. Simon Mignolet should keep his place in goal after recording clean sheets in these matches as Liverpool look to maintain their impressive record at home. They are unbeaten in nine home games in all competitions this season and haven't lost at Anfield since Stoke won 1-0 there in the EFL Cup semi-final second leg on January 26 -- Liverpool eventually won that tie on penalties. 'Be positive' Mid-table Stoke head to Merseyside having failed to win in three matches, including a 2-2 draw at home to Leicester City in their last outing when they squandered a two-goal lead. Stoke could not have asked for a tougher festive period, with this game being followed by a trip to Chelsea on New Year's Eve but Hughes is backing his team to spring a surprise. "We are under no illusions as to how good they both are and how difficult the matches will be for us, but we have to go into the games with real belief," said Hughes. "Not many people are thinking we have a chance of gaining positive results but that certainly isn't the case within our camp. "Of course they have players who can hurt us, but we have players who can hurt them too. We went to Liverpool last year and beat them and we also got our first point at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League so we know we can go to these places and be positive." The game will see Wales midfielder Joe Allen return to Anfield for the first time since moving to Stoke in a £13 million ($15.9m, 15.2m euros) deal in the close season. "I don't think he's going to be turning up there with the intention, 'I'll show everybody they were wrong -- I feel bitter about my time there and how I was allowed to leave'", said Hughes, who is without the banned Marko Arnautovic. "Clubs move players on. That's football. I think players always want to do well when they go back to a club, but he has nothing to prove." (AFP)

Klopp says little more luck on injury front, and they'll go top

Liverpool starlet Ben Woodburn made history as the teenage striker became the club&#39;s youngest ever goalscorer in Tuesday&#39;s 2-0 win over Leeds in the League Cup quarter-finals.

Aged 17 years and 45 days, Woodburn enjoyed a moment to remember forever in the 81st minute at Anfield when he fired home in front of the famous Kop End to eclipse the previous record set by Michael Owen, who was 17 years and 143 days old when he scored against Wimbledon in May 1997.

Cheshire-born Woodburn, who recently signed a long-term contract with Liverpool, is a Wales Under-19 international, but he still remains eligible to play for England at senior level.

Klopp`s side are through to the League Cup semi-finals for the third successive year thanks to Woodburn and Divock Origi.

Klopp has now won seven of his nine League Cup games with Liverpool, who hope to lift the trophy for the ninth time after losing to Manchester City in the final last term.Before kick-off, Liverpool`s Brazilian captain Lucas and his team-mates, all wearing black armbands, stood for a minutes` silence following the plane crash that killed 71 people, including members of the Brazilian Chapecoense team.

With Philippe Coutinho sidelined for five weeks with ankle ligament damage, Klopp gave starts to teenagers Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ovie Ejaria as the Reds boss selected a team featuring eight changes.

Second tier Leeds, whose last League Cup semi-final appearance was in 1996, should have been ahead early on when Hadi Sacko broke the offside trap and saw his shot saved by Simon Mignolet.

Liverpool gradually took charge and Sadio Mane`s pass slipped Georginio Wijnaldum into the penalty area, but the Dutchman&#39;s shot struck the far post.

Then, in the 76th minute, Alexander-Arnold whipped in a cross from the right and Belgian striker Origi stretched to guide the ball home at the near post for his fourth goal of the season and third in the League Cup.

Woodburn came on in the 67th minute and his dream came to true when he smashed home a flowing move involving Origi, Mane and Wijnaldum in the 81st minute.

(AFP)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Ben Woodburn became Liverpool's youngest scorer as the team beat Leeds 2-0 to reach the semis of the League Cup

Liverpool starlet Ben Woodburn made history as the teenage striker became the club's youngest ever goalscorer in Tuesday's 2-0 win over Leeds in the League Cup quarter-finals. Aged 17 years and 45 days, Woodburn enjoyed a moment to remember forever in the 81st minute at Anfield when he fired home in front of the famous Kop End to eclipse the previous record set by Michael Owen, who was 17 years and 143 days old when he scored against Wimbledon in May 1997. Cheshire-born Woodburn, who recently signed a long-term contract with Liverpool, is a Wales Under-19 international, but he still remains eligible to play for England at senior level. Klopp`s side are through to the League Cup semi-finals for the third successive year thanks to Woodburn and Divock Origi. Klopp has now won seven of his nine League Cup games with Liverpool, who hope to lift the trophy for the ninth time after losing to Manchester City in the final last term.Before kick-off, Liverpool`s Brazilian captain Lucas and his team-mates, all wearing black armbands, stood for a minutes` silence following the plane crash that killed 71 people, including members of the Brazilian Chapecoense team. With Philippe Coutinho sidelined for five weeks with ankle ligament damage, Klopp gave starts to teenagers Trent Alexander-Arnold and Ovie Ejaria as the Reds boss selected a team featuring eight changes. Second tier Leeds, whose last League Cup semi-final appearance was in 1996, should have been ahead early on when Hadi Sacko broke the offside trap and saw his shot saved by Simon Mignolet. Liverpool gradually took charge and Sadio Mane`s pass slipped Georginio Wijnaldum into the penalty area, but the Dutchman's shot struck the far post. Then, in the 76th minute, Alexander-Arnold whipped in a cross from the right and Belgian striker Origi stretched to guide the ball home at the near post for his fourth goal of the season and third in the League Cup. Woodburn came on in the 67th minute and his dream came to true when he smashed home a flowing move involving Origi, Mane and Wijnaldum in the 81st minute. (AFP)

Record-breaker Woodburn helps Liverpool reach League Cup semis

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has urged his players to &ldquo;be cool&rdquo; after his side went top of the Premier League for the first time since he arrived at Anfield.

Klopp watched Liverpool produce one of their most emphatic displays of the season as they thrashed Watford 6-1.

Sadio Mane scored twice while Philippe Coutinho, Emre Can, Roberto Firmino and Georginio Wijnaldum also got their names on the scoresheet as Liverpool produced the kind of performance that will further fuel title talk.

However, Klopp was keen to urge caution despite the fervour whipped up by the red half of Merseyside, who have not seen Liverpool win the league title since 1990.

&ldquo;If somebody thinks being one point ahead after 11 matchdays is a big sign for the rest of the season, I can&#39;t help this person, so sorry,&rdquo; Klopp said.

&ldquo;We stay cool, it&#39;s the best position I can imagine, nothing else happened. We didn&#39;t speak one word that Arsenal drew against Tottenham, not one word about the possibility of being top of the table.

&ldquo;The only thing you can do is work and stay concentrated, because a lot of different things could happen in the next few weeks and months. No matter how positive they are is up to us, actually.&rdquo;

Klopp insisted that the extra scrutiny on his side as they head into the international break top of the pile for the first time since May 2014 will not affect them.

&nbsp;No pressure&nbsp; 
He added &ldquo;There is no pressure after 11 matchdays. Chelsea played yesterday, quite impressive. We saw Manchester City play Barcelona, quite impressive.

&ldquo;Never write Manchester United off. Tottenham, good side. I&#39;m not sure if I&#39;ve forgotten anybody but there&#39;s a lot of really good teams around.

&ldquo;You can play a really good season and when they are better what&#39;s possible is you could be fifth or sixth and no one would be really happy.&nbsp;

&quot;Stay cool, take the things like they are, play your best football and win football games. That&#39;s the only thing you can do.

&ldquo;When I came here I asked for time, patience, belief, a lot of things. Now after 11 matchdays everybody is asking for guarantees and they are not there, there&#39;s no guarantees.&nbsp;

&quot;The only thing we obviously have is a pretty good football team, let&#39;s try to use it.&rdquo;

While Klopp was keen to take the sting out of any title talk, Watford manager Walter Mazzarri was happy to rank Liverpool as his favourites.

Watford have played Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United this season but Mazzarri was adamant where Liverpool are in the pecking order for Premier League title challengers.

&ldquo;From the teams we have played against, there is no doubt they are the team I am most impressed with,&rdquo; said the Italian.

&ldquo;If they continue like this, they are number one in my list for winning the Premier League.

&ldquo;I am very very impressed, not only tactically but on their running, their pressing, they are really a great team.&rdquo;&nbsp;

Watford lost goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes to an injury in the 33rd minute of the game and the Brazilian left Anfield his knee heavily strapped up, although Mazzarri does not know the extent of the blow.

&ldquo;He had a very big knock on the knee,&rdquo; he added. &ldquo;But we need to check in the next days if the knee twisted and we will know in the next days.&rdquo; 
&nbsp;

(AFP)

Talk has begun of a title challenge; the Reds last won the league in 1990

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has urged his players to “be cool” after his side went top of the Premier League for the first time since he arrived at Anfield. Klopp watched Liverpool produce one of their most emphatic displays of the season as they thrashed Watford 6-1. Sadio Mane scored twice while Philippe Coutinho, Emre Can, Roberto Firmino and Georginio Wijnaldum also got their names on the scoresheet as Liverpool produced the kind of performance that will further fuel title talk. However, Klopp was keen to urge caution despite the fervour whipped up by the red half of Merseyside, who have not seen Liverpool win the league title since 1990. “If somebody thinks being one point ahead after 11 matchdays is a big sign for the rest of the season, I can't help this person, so sorry,” Klopp said. “We stay cool, it's the best position I can imagine, nothing else happened. We didn't speak one word that Arsenal drew against Tottenham, not one word about the possibility of being top of the table. “The only thing you can do is work and stay concentrated, because a lot of different things could happen in the next few weeks and months. No matter how positive they are is up to us, actually.” Klopp insisted that the extra scrutiny on his side as they head into the international break top of the pile for the first time since May 2014 will not affect them. No pressure He added “There is no pressure after 11 matchdays. Chelsea played yesterday, quite impressive. We saw Manchester City play Barcelona, quite impressive. “Never write Manchester United off. Tottenham, good side. I'm not sure if I've forgotten anybody but there's a lot of really good teams around. “You can play a really good season and when they are better what's possible is you could be fifth or sixth and no one would be really happy. "Stay cool, take the things like they are, play your best football and win football games. That's the only thing you can do. “When I came here I asked for time, patience, belief, a lot of things. Now after 11 matchdays everybody is asking for guarantees and they are not there, there's no guarantees. "The only thing we obviously have is a pretty good football team, let's try to use it.” While Klopp was keen to take the sting out of any title talk, Watford manager Walter Mazzarri was happy to rank Liverpool as his favourites. Watford have played Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United this season but Mazzarri was adamant where Liverpool are in the pecking order for Premier League title challengers. “From the teams we have played against, there is no doubt they are the team I am most impressed with,” said the Italian. “If they continue like this, they are number one in my list for winning the Premier League. “I am very very impressed, not only tactically but on their running, their pressing, they are really a great team.” Watford lost goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes to an injury in the 33rd minute of the game and the Brazilian left Anfield his knee heavily strapped up, although Mazzarri does not know the extent of the blow. “He had a very big knock on the knee,” he added. “But we need to check in the next days if the knee twisted and we will know in the next days.” (AFP)

'Be cool', Liverpool's Klopp says after they go top of table

New Italian coach Giampiero Ventura hinted today that striker Graziano Pelle could risk his Azzurri place following a recent move to China and gave Mario Balotelli little chance of returning to the national team. 
 
Pelle, 31, scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for Southampton following his arrival from Feyenoord in 2014 and was an integral part of the Italy team that reached the Euro 2016 quarter-finals in France. 
 
But Pelle&#39;s reported 15m Euros (&pound;12.7 million, $16.6 million) move to Shandong Luneng could dent his Italy future if he follows in the footsteps of former Juventus maestro Andrea Pirlo and ex-Bologna star Alessandro Diamanti. 
 
Pirlo&#39;s move to New York City FC and Diamanti&#39;s signing for Guangzhou Evergrande preceded the ends of their respective international careers. 
 
Ventura, officially unveiled as Chelsea manager Antonio Conte&#39;s successor today, said the circumstances surrounding Pelle and those players &quot;could not be compared&quot;. 
 
But he added: &quot;A player has to be strong, psychologically and mentally&quot;, to feature for Italy while playing outside of Europe. 
 
&quot;Diamanti, despite being a quality player, lost it (Italy place) when he went to China.&quot; 
 
Pelle scored twice for Italy in France last month but was one of several players to miss the target in an error-strewn 18-shot penalty shoot-out that Germany won 6-5 to advance to the semi-finals. 
 
Ventura said the striker, at least on paper, remains part of his plans but admitted the long-haul travel could complicate matters. 
 
&quot;I have to consider all the 23 players who were at the Euros because of what they achieved. Plus, there will be many others because we&#39;re moving forward,&quot; he explained. 
 
&quot;As for Pelle, apart from his missed penalty, he had a positive campaign. But China is far away. Let&#39;s see why he moved.&quot; 
 
Balotelli, meanwhile, will have to reignite his troubled club future if he is to have any chance of remaining an Italy international. 
 
Having spent a mediocre last season on loan at AC Milan, Balotelli was told recently by Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp to find a new club. 
 
Ventura said the door would remain open but that the troubled star was &quot;at a crossroads&quot; in his career. 
 
&quot;For me he&#39;s exactly the same as all other players when, a) he plays, and b) he is professional,&quot; added Ventura when asked about Balotelli. 
 
&quot;In terms of his character, he could do much better. The fact he&#39;s not playing at Milan, that Liverpool have abandoned him, means that he is at crossroads. 
 
&quot;The few times that Balotelli has really wanted to be a footballer, he has shown his quality. I have no prejudice, but his football must do the talking.&quot; 
 
A respected tactician, Ventura comes to the post after a five-year spell with Torino. 
 
Tasked with qualifying Italy for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he now hopes to convince rock-solid Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli to extend his international career. 
 
The sixty-eight-year-old coach also intends to build on Conte&#39;s two-year spell in charge by steering the new generation through the ranks. 
 
&quot;I haven&#39;t spoken to Barzagli yet but if I want to take up where Conte has left off it&#39;s obvious that he would be a crucial player for us,&quot; added Ventura, whose first game in charge is a friendly against beaten Euro 2016 finalists France in Bari on September 1. 
 
&quot;We have a lot of upcoming players and I want to bring them through. But we have to be patient and give them time to come through gradually.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

Graziano Pelle is all set to leave Southampton for Chinese Super League's Shandong Luneng

New Italian coach Giampiero Ventura hinted today that striker Graziano Pelle could risk his Azzurri place following a recent move to China and gave Mario Balotelli little chance of returning to the national team. Pelle, 31, scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for Southampton following his arrival from Feyenoord in 2014 and was an integral part of the Italy team that reached the Euro 2016 quarter-finals in France. But Pelle's reported 15m Euros (£12.7 million, $16.6 million) move to Shandong Luneng could dent his Italy future if he follows in the footsteps of former Juventus maestro Andrea Pirlo and ex-Bologna star Alessandro Diamanti. Pirlo's move to New York City FC and Diamanti's signing for Guangzhou Evergrande preceded the ends of their respective international careers. Ventura, officially unveiled as Chelsea manager Antonio Conte's successor today, said the circumstances surrounding Pelle and those players "could not be compared". But he added: "A player has to be strong, psychologically and mentally", to feature for Italy while playing outside of Europe. "Diamanti, despite being a quality player, lost it (Italy place) when he went to China." Pelle scored twice for Italy in France last month but was one of several players to miss the target in an error-strewn 18-shot penalty shoot-out that Germany won 6-5 to advance to the semi-finals. Ventura said the striker, at least on paper, remains part of his plans but admitted the long-haul travel could complicate matters. "I have to consider all the 23 players who were at the Euros because of what they achieved. Plus, there will be many others because we're moving forward," he explained. "As for Pelle, apart from his missed penalty, he had a positive campaign. But China is far away. Let's see why he moved." Balotelli, meanwhile, will have to reignite his troubled club future if he is to have any chance of remaining an Italy international. Having spent a mediocre last season on loan at AC Milan, Balotelli was told recently by Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp to find a new club. Ventura said the door would remain open but that the troubled star was "at a crossroads" in his career. "For me he's exactly the same as all other players when, a) he plays, and b) he is professional," added Ventura when asked about Balotelli. "In terms of his character, he could do much better. The fact he's not playing at Milan, that Liverpool have abandoned him, means that he is at crossroads. "The few times that Balotelli has really wanted to be a footballer, he has shown his quality. I have no prejudice, but his football must do the talking." A respected tactician, Ventura comes to the post after a five-year spell with Torino. Tasked with qualifying Italy for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he now hopes to convince rock-solid Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli to extend his international career. The sixty-eight-year-old coach also intends to build on Conte's two-year spell in charge by steering the new generation through the ranks. "I haven't spoken to Barzagli yet but if I want to take up where Conte has left off it's obvious that he would be a crucial player for us," added Ventura, whose first game in charge is a friendly against beaten Euro 2016 finalists France in Bari on September 1. "We have a lot of upcoming players and I want to bring them through. But we have to be patient and give them time to come through gradually." (AFP)

Italy's Graziano Pelle, Mario Balotelli receive warning

Liverpool have finalised the signing of Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan from Augsburg, the Premier League club confirmed on Wednesday. 
 
Klavan agreed a &quot;long-term contract&quot; after passing a medical at Liverpool&#39;s Melwood training ground. 
 
Klavan will cost the Reds a reported &pound;4.2 million ($5.5 million, 5 million euros). 
 
The 30-year-old has won over 100 caps for Estonia and is well known to Liverpool&#39;s German manager Jurgen Klopp, a former Borussia Dortmund coach, after spending four seasons playing in the Bundesliga. 
 
&quot;I&#39;m really honoured to be part of this amazing club, this amazing team,&quot; Klavan told Liverpool&#39;s website. 
 
&quot;It&#39;s hard to put it into words because it&#39;s been a dream of mine for 22 years to come to the Premier League and be a part of this amazing club, Liverpool. 
 
&quot;The Premier League is the most attractive league in the world and you always have amazing players here. This is the home of football.&quot; 
 
Klavan, who featured in both legs of Augsburg&#39;s Europa League last-32 tie against Liverpool in February, will provide cover at centre-back as Mamadou Sakho and Joe Gomez are both currently injured and Tiago Ilori is heading to the Olympics with Portugal. 
 
The defender is Klopp&#39;s fifth close-season signing, following the arrival of goalkeeper Loris Karius, defender Joel Matip, midfielder Marko Grujic and forward Sadio Mane. 
 
(AFP) 
&nbsp;

30-year-old Klavan has won over 100 caps for Estonia and is well known to Liverpool's German manager Jurgen Klopp

Liverpool have finalised the signing of Estonia defender Ragnar Klavan from Augsburg, the Premier League club confirmed on Wednesday. Klavan agreed a "long-term contract" after passing a medical at Liverpool's Melwood training ground. Klavan will cost the Reds a reported £4.2 million ($5.5 million, 5 million euros). The 30-year-old has won over 100 caps for Estonia and is well known to Liverpool's German manager Jurgen Klopp, a former Borussia Dortmund coach, after spending four seasons playing in the Bundesliga. "I'm really honoured to be part of this amazing club, this amazing team," Klavan told Liverpool's website. "It's hard to put it into words because it's been a dream of mine for 22 years to come to the Premier League and be a part of this amazing club, Liverpool. "The Premier League is the most attractive league in the world and you always have amazing players here. This is the home of football." Klavan, who featured in both legs of Augsburg's Europa League last-32 tie against Liverpool in February, will provide cover at centre-back as Mamadou Sakho and Joe Gomez are both currently injured and Tiago Ilori is heading to the Olympics with Portugal. The defender is Klopp's fifth close-season signing, following the arrival of goalkeeper Loris Karius, defender Joel Matip, midfielder Marko Grujic and forward Sadio Mane. (AFP)

Ragnar Klavan moves to Liverpool in 5 million euros deal

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