Everton must stick with under-fire Marco Silva if they believe in his ability as there are no guarantees that a new manager can come in and improve results immediately, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said.

Everton invested heavily on new players in the close season but results have hardly matched expectations, with Silva's side managing three wins in their last 12 Premier League games to heap pressure on the Portuguese.

"My advice... if they believe in the project, if they believe in him, they have to move forward with him," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Wednesday's trip to Goodison Park.

"Nobody assures you a new manager is going to do better."

Guardiola did not enjoy success at City until his second campaign when he won the league title and the League Cup last season and stressed the need for clubs like Everton to keep faith in their managers.

"It's difficult to create, to build something. You need time, it takes time. So it depends if they trust (Silva) or not," Guardiola added.

"The people don't know how difficult it is to create teams. People believe I buy three or four players, a new manager, and everything fits perfectly. Sometimes it takes time."

City are second in the table with 59 points from 25 games, seven places above Everton.

Everton must stick with under-fire Marco Silva if they believe in his ability as there are no guarantees that a new manager can come in and improve results immediately, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said.

Everton must stick with under-fire Marco Silva if they believe in his ability as there are no guarantees that a new manager can come in and improve results immediately, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said. Everton invested heavily on new players in the close season but results have hardly matched expectations, with Silva's side managing three wins in their last 12 Premier League games to heap pressure on the Portuguese. "My advice... if they believe in the project, if they believe in him, they have to move forward with him," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Wednesday's trip to Goodison Park. "Nobody assures you a new manager is going to do better." Guardiola did not enjoy success at City until his second campaign when he won the league title and the League Cup last season and stressed the need for clubs like Everton to keep faith in their managers. "It's difficult to create, to build something. You need time, it takes time. So it depends if they trust (Silva) or not," Guardiola added. "The people don't know how difficult it is to create teams. People believe I buy three or four players, a new manager, and everything fits perfectly. Sometimes it takes time." City are second in the table with 59 points from 25 games, seven places above Everton.

Guardiola advises Everton to be patient with Silva

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City.

Trailing 1-0 from the semi-final first leg, Chelsea turned the tie on its head with goals by N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard in the first half but Fernando Llorente struck for Spurs in an enthralling Stamford Bridge duel.

Chelsea had 20 goal attempts to Tottenham's five but the visitors held firm to set up a penalty shootout.

Christian Eriksen scored Tottenham's first spot-kick but teammate Eric Dier, the hero of England's World Cup shootout win over Colombia last year, fired over and Lucas Moura's penalty was well-saved by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Chelsea's penalties were more clinical and David Luiz slotted past Paulo Gazzaniga to seal the victory and send Chelsea into their 15th cup final in 17 years.

Spurs, who were without Harry Kane, scorer of a penalty in the first leg, and England teammate Dele Alli, both because of injury, plus South Korean Son Heung-min who is on international duty, battled hard but their wait for silverware goes on.

They have not won a trophy since beating Chelsea in the 2008 League Cup final.

After Chelsea's 2-0 weekend Premier League defeat at Arsenal, Sarri raised eyebrows by accusing his players of being "difficult to motivate" and publicly demanded more of his Belgium forward Hazard.

But a visit from rivals Tottenham, with a Wembley final at stake, provided the incentive for a far sharper display, with Hazard at the heart of Chelsea's attacking endeavour.

"I think that they reacted well tonight," Sarri, who has never won a trophy during his near 30-year managerial career, told reporters.

"But I didn't attack my players. I just said we had a problem. The reaction was very good but we need to have motivation with continuity now.

"In the last three or four matches we were not able to be dangerous. Tonight was better."

Tails Up

Tottenham, who are four points above Chelsea in the Premier League standings, looked comfortable early on but the hosts gradually began to exert a measure of control.

Chelsea went ahead in the 27th minute when Kante's shot from the edge of the area went through the legs of two Spurs players and squirmed past Gazzaniga -- in goal instead of Hugo Lloris.

With their tails up Chelsea began to dominate and they went ahead in the tie in the 38th minute when a fluid passing move ended with Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross being calmly side-footed home by a stretching Hazard.

Tottenham responded after the break and Kane's replacement Llorente bundled in a header from Danny Rose's cross to put them back on level terms on aggregate in the 50th minute.

The Spanish striker also wasted a great chance from Eriksen's raking pass before being replaced by Moura.

However, it was Chelsea who looked the more likely side to avoid the need for penalties. Hazard twice went close and Spurs needed some last-ditch tackles to keep Chelsea at bay.

It was all in vain for Mauricio Pochettino's side, though, as they faltered with a domestic final in sight.

"We are disappointed but it's a massive success to get to the semi-final with all the circumstances," he said.

"We're so disappointed to lose in that way, but it can happen. The players were brave and with all the circumstances I can only feel proud. It will make us stronger."

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City.

Chelsea produced the perfect response to manager Maurizio Sarri's weekend criticism to beat London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on penalties on Thursday and set up a League Cup final showdown against holders Manchester City. Trailing 1-0 from the semi-final first leg, Chelsea turned the tie on its head with goals by N'Golo Kante and Eden Hazard in the first half but Fernando Llorente struck for Spurs in an enthralling Stamford Bridge duel. Chelsea had 20 goal attempts to Tottenham's five but the visitors held firm to set up a penalty shootout. Christian Eriksen scored Tottenham's first spot-kick but teammate Eric Dier, the hero of England's World Cup shootout win over Colombia last year, fired over and Lucas Moura's penalty was well-saved by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Chelsea's penalties were more clinical and David Luiz slotted past Paulo Gazzaniga to seal the victory and send Chelsea into their 15th cup final in 17 years. Spurs, who were without Harry Kane, scorer of a penalty in the first leg, and England teammate Dele Alli, both because of injury, plus South Korean Son Heung-min who is on international duty, battled hard but their wait for silverware goes on. They have not won a trophy since beating Chelsea in the 2008 League Cup final. After Chelsea's 2-0 weekend Premier League defeat at Arsenal, Sarri raised eyebrows by accusing his players of being "difficult to motivate" and publicly demanded more of his Belgium forward Hazard. But a visit from rivals Tottenham, with a Wembley final at stake, provided the incentive for a far sharper display, with Hazard at the heart of Chelsea's attacking endeavour. "I think that they reacted well tonight," Sarri, who has never won a trophy during his near 30-year managerial career, told reporters. "But I didn't attack my players. I just said we had a problem. The reaction was very good but we need to have motivation with continuity now. "In the last three or four matches we were not able to be dangerous. Tonight was better." Tails Up Tottenham, who are four points above Chelsea in the Premier League standings, looked comfortable early on but the hosts gradually began to exert a measure of control. Chelsea went ahead in the 27th minute when Kante's shot from the edge of the area went through the legs of two Spurs players and squirmed past Gazzaniga -- in goal instead of Hugo Lloris. With their tails up Chelsea began to dominate and they went ahead in the tie in the 38th minute when a fluid passing move ended with Cesar Azpilicueta's low cross being calmly side-footed home by a stretching Hazard. Tottenham responded after the break and Kane's replacement Llorente bundled in a header from Danny Rose's cross to put them back on level terms on aggregate in the 50th minute. The Spanish striker also wasted a great chance from Eriksen's raking pass before being replaced by Moura. However, it was Chelsea who looked the more likely side to avoid the need for penalties. Hazard twice went close and Spurs needed some last-ditch tackles to keep Chelsea at bay. It was all in vain for Mauricio Pochettino's side, though, as they faltered with a domestic final in sight. "We are disappointed but it's a massive success to get to the semi-final with all the circumstances," he said. "We're so disappointed to lose in that way, but it can happen. The players were brave and with all the circumstances I can only feel proud. It will make us stronger."

Chelsea edge Spurs on penalties to reach League Cup final

Manchester City full-back Benjamin Mendy has recovered from a knee injury and will return to the squad for the second leg of their League Cup semi-final at Burton Albion on Wednesday, manager Pep Guardiola said.

Mendy, 24, last played in a 3-1 league win over neighbours Manchester United in November but has missed 16 games after undergoing surgery on his left knee.

He was expected to return to action in February but the France international stepped up his recovery and Guardiola hoped he would play a role in the "last part of the season".

"(Mendy is) in the squad for tomorrow. He will travel with us. Maybe on the bench," Guardiola told reporters on Tuesday.

Guardiola, however, was unable to confirm a return date for club captain Vincent Kompany, who suffered a muscle injury earlier this month.

"Kompany is not okay. A little injury, he is not fit," Guardiola added of the central defender. "He is coming back but I don't know when."

City hold a 9-0 lead over the League One (third-tier) side from the first leg and Guardiola sees the return leg as an opportunity for fringe players to see some action but added that regular midfielder Kevin De Bruyne would play a part.

"(De Bruyne) is going to play. Players who need to play, who haven't played lately, who are coming back from injury long-term are going to play," the Spaniard said.

"We are going to play Phil (Foden)... a few (academy players), two or three. A few on the bench."

Manchester City full-back Benjamin Mendy has recovered from a knee injury and will return to the squad for the second leg of their League Cup semi-final at Burton Albion on Wednesday, manager Pep Guardiola said.

Manchester City full-back Benjamin Mendy has recovered from a knee injury and will return to the squad for the second leg of their League Cup semi-final at Burton Albion on Wednesday, manager Pep Guardiola said. Mendy, 24, last played in a 3-1 league win over neighbours Manchester United in November but has missed 16 games after undergoing surgery on his left knee. He was expected to return to action in February but the France international stepped up his recovery and Guardiola hoped he would play a role in the "last part of the season". "(Mendy is) in the squad for tomorrow. He will travel with us. Maybe on the bench," Guardiola told reporters on Tuesday. Guardiola, however, was unable to confirm a return date for club captain Vincent Kompany, who suffered a muscle injury earlier this month. "Kompany is not okay. A little injury, he is not fit," Guardiola added of the central defender. "He is coming back but I don't know when." City hold a 9-0 lead over the League One (third-tier) side from the first leg and Guardiola sees the return leg as an opportunity for fringe players to see some action but added that regular midfielder Kevin De Bruyne would play a part. "(De Bruyne) is going to play. Players who need to play, who haven't played lately, who are coming back from injury long-term are going to play," the Spaniard said. "We are going to play Phil (Foden)... a few (academy players), two or three. A few on the bench."

Mendy back for Burton clash, Kompany return uncertain

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has thanked Jose Mourinho for helping him "improve as a person" despite the breakdown of their relationship in the last few months leading up to the former manager's sacking on Tuesday.

Mourinho, who replaced Dutchman Louis van Gaal in 2016, won the Europa League and League Cup in his first campaign but his third season was dominated by media reports of a rift with Pogba while United laboured on the pitch playing dull soccer.

Pogba was stripped of vice-captaincy earlier this season and dropped for the final three league games of Mourinho's tenure, but the France international said that he had no hard feelings towards the Portuguese.

"We won trophies with Jose and I want to thank him for that. Not everything worked well, but (some) things went well," Pogba told the British media.

"He makes me improve, as a person as well, and that's it. That's the past, I want to thank him for that. I'm sure that is the same for all the players."

Pogba was immediately restored to the starting line-up under caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and produced two assists in Saturday's 5-1 Premier League thrashing of Cardiff City.

"The performance of the team was great and we are happy that the first game of the manager starts like this," Pogba added.

"It's important now to carry on like that. We cannot play like this and win with five goals and then the next game lose."

United, who are sixth in the standings with 29 points after 18 matches, host Huddersfield Town on Wednesday.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has thanked Jose Mourinho for helping him "improve as a person" despite the breakdown of their relationship in the last few months leading up to the former manager's sacking on Tuesday.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba has thanked Jose Mourinho for helping him "improve as a person" despite the breakdown of their relationship in the last few months leading up to the former manager's sacking on Tuesday. Mourinho, who replaced Dutchman Louis van Gaal in 2016, won the Europa League and League Cup in his first campaign but his third season was dominated by media reports of a rift with Pogba while United laboured on the pitch playing dull soccer. Pogba was stripped of vice-captaincy earlier this season and dropped for the final three league games of Mourinho's tenure, but the France international said that he had no hard feelings towards the Portuguese. "We won trophies with Jose and I want to thank him for that. Not everything worked well, but (some) things went well," Pogba told the British media. "He makes me improve, as a person as well, and that's it. That's the past, I want to thank him for that. I'm sure that is the same for all the players." Pogba was immediately restored to the starting line-up under caretaker boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and produced two assists in Saturday's 5-1 Premier League thrashing of Cardiff City. "The performance of the team was great and we are happy that the first game of the manager starts like this," Pogba added. "It's important now to carry on like that. We cannot play like this and win with five goals and then the next game lose." United, who are sixth in the standings with 29 points after 18 matches, host Huddersfield Town on Wednesday.

Paul Pogba thanks Mourinho for improving him as a person

Tottenham Hotspur gained sweet revenge over <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/superb-stanislas-strike-helps-bournemouth-into-league-cup-quarters-174560">north London rivals Arsenal as </a>goals in each half by Son Heung-min and Dele Alli earned them a 2-0 win on Wednesday and a League Cup semi-final place.

Seventeen days after losing 4-2 in a pulsating <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-to-face-chelsea-in-league-cup-third-round-162716">Premier League clash, in-form</a> Tottenham returned to the Emirates to claim a first away victory over Arsenal in eight years and set up a two-legged semi against Chelsea.

Son opened the scoring against the run of play with a stylish 20th-minute effort from Alli's pass and Alli doubled Tottenham's lead with a delightful dinked finish on the hour.

Shortly afterwards Alli appeared to be struck by a plastic bottle thrown from the Arsenal fans but it did not dampen Tottenham's night as they took a step towards a first trophy under Manchester United target Mauricio Pochettino.

"It's a big derby, last time we were here we didn't have a great result and this is a special night," Son said.

Arsenal had gone 22 matches unbeaten in all competitions under new manager Unai Emery until Sunday's league defeat at Southampton and a second loss in four days was a bitter pill to swallow.

The hosts played well in patches but were guilty of wasting several chances, especially before the break.

Tottenham keeper Paulo Gazzaniga, in for rested Hugo Lloris, was also inspired when he needed to be, clawing an Aaron Ramsey volley on to the post just before halftime.

The Argentine was first Spurs goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet away at Arsenal in any competition since November, 1998.

Arsenal started brightly and Henrikh Mkhitaryan glanced a header across the face of goal before Ramsey flashed a shot wide. Mkhitaryan then wasted a gilt-edged opportunity when clean through on goal, shooting too close to Gazzaniga.

Tottenham took the lead in the 24th minute when a long punt forward was flicked on to Alli, who showed great vision to set Son racing clear and the South Korean calmly curled past Cech.

Moussa Sissoko should have extended Tottenham's lead but fired wastefully over and it was Arsenal who ended the half strong with Ramsey's volley forcing heroics from Gazzaniga.

Arsenal introduced French striker Alexandre Lacazette just before the hour mark but it was Harry Kane, who came off the bench at the same time for Spurs, who made an immediate impact.

Kane chested down a high ball and his lofted pass released Alli. His first touch was sublime and his second lifted the ball over the advancing Cech to double Tottenham's lead.

Lacazette hit the woodwork late on but Arsenal rarely looked like denying Tottenham victory.

"I think we worked like we want, like we prepared," Emery said.

"We created chances in the first half to score but our efficiency wasn’t good. We didn’t concede a lot for them, but they have quality and they scored."

Tottenham are hunting their first silverware since 2008 when they beat Chelsea in the League Cup final while they lost to the Blues in the 2015 final in Pochettino's first season in charge.

"A very difficult draw, another London derby. We have already played Watford, West Ham and Arsenal," Pochettino said.

"We shall see, Chelsea are a great team but we are excited. To be in the semi-final is fantastic for us."

Tottenham Hotspur gained sweet revenge over north London rivals Arsenal as goals in each half by Son Heung-min and Dele Alli earned them a 2-0 win on Wednesday and a League Cup semi-final place.

Tottenham Hotspur gained sweet revenge over north London rivals Arsenal as goals in each half by Son Heung-min and Dele Alli earned them a 2-0 win on Wednesday and a League Cup semi-final place. Seventeen days after losing 4-2 in a pulsating Premier League clash, in-form Tottenham returned to the Emirates to claim a first away victory over Arsenal in eight years and set up a two-legged semi against Chelsea. Son opened the scoring against the run of play with a stylish 20th-minute effort from Alli's pass and Alli doubled Tottenham's lead with a delightful dinked finish on the hour. Shortly afterwards Alli appeared to be struck by a plastic bottle thrown from the Arsenal fans but it did not dampen Tottenham's night as they took a step towards a first trophy under Manchester United target Mauricio Pochettino. "It's a big derby, last time we were here we didn't have a great result and this is a special night," Son said. Arsenal had gone 22 matches unbeaten in all competitions under new manager Unai Emery until Sunday's league defeat at Southampton and a second loss in four days was a bitter pill to swallow. The hosts played well in patches but were guilty of wasting several chances, especially before the break. Tottenham keeper Paulo Gazzaniga, in for rested Hugo Lloris, was also inspired when he needed to be, clawing an Aaron Ramsey volley on to the post just before halftime. The Argentine was first Spurs goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet away at Arsenal in any competition since November, 1998. Arsenal started brightly and Henrikh Mkhitaryan glanced a header across the face of goal before Ramsey flashed a shot wide. Mkhitaryan then wasted a gilt-edged opportunity when clean through on goal, shooting too close to Gazzaniga. Tottenham took the lead in the 24th minute when a long punt forward was flicked on to Alli, who showed great vision to set Son racing clear and the South Korean calmly curled past Cech. Moussa Sissoko should have extended Tottenham's lead but fired wastefully over and it was Arsenal who ended the half strong with Ramsey's volley forcing heroics from Gazzaniga. Arsenal introduced French striker Alexandre Lacazette just before the hour mark but it was Harry Kane, who came off the bench at the same time for Spurs, who made an immediate impact. Kane chested down a high ball and his lofted pass released Alli. His first touch was sublime and his second lifted the ball over the advancing Cech to double Tottenham's lead. Lacazette hit the woodwork late on but Arsenal rarely looked like denying Tottenham victory. "I think we worked like we want, like we prepared," Emery said. "We created chances in the first half to score but our efficiency wasn’t good. We didn’t concede a lot for them, but they have quality and they scored." Tottenham are hunting their first silverware since 2008 when they beat Chelsea in the League Cup final while they lost to the Blues in the 2015 final in Pochettino's first season in charge. "A very difficult draw, another London derby. We have already played Watford, West Ham and Arsenal," Pochettino said. "We shall see, Chelsea are a great team but we are excited. To be in the semi-final is fantastic for us."

League Cup: Tottenham Hotspur's Son, Dele Alli overpower Arsenal

West Ham United manager Slaven&nbsp;Bilic&nbsp;is keen to bring in one more player before the transfer window closes on Aug. 31 but admits he may have to rush through another deal if he loses someone from his tight squad.

West Ham have strengthened with five new players including striker Javier Hernandez, defender Pablo Zabaleta and winger Marko Arnautovic but there has been speculation Argentine Manuel Lanzini was being lined up by Liverpool.

&quot;We will see what happens in the last week of the transfer window, if somebody is going to leave or come in,&quot;&nbsp;Bilic&nbsp;told reporters ahead of Wednesday&#39;s League Cup match against Cheltenham Town.

&quot;I&#39;m happy with the squad now. I would like to have one more and after that, if somebody leaves we have to fill that gap because we don&#39;t have a big squad ... We are happy but if somebody leaves we have to be ready to act.&quot;

West Ham, who have lost their opening two league games of the new season, travel to Newcastle United when Premier League action resumes on Saturday.

"We will see what happens in the last week of the transfer window, if somebody is going to leave or come in," Bilic told reporters

West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic is keen to bring in one more player before the transfer window closes on Aug. 31 but admits he may have to rush through another deal if he loses someone from his tight squad. West Ham have strengthened with five new players including striker Javier Hernandez, defender Pablo Zabaleta and winger Marko Arnautovic but there has been speculation Argentine Manuel Lanzini was being lined up by Liverpool. "We will see what happens in the last week of the transfer window, if somebody is going to leave or come in," Bilic told reporters ahead of Wednesday's League Cup match against Cheltenham Town. "I'm happy with the squad now. I would like to have one more and after that, if somebody leaves we have to fill that gap because we don't have a big squad ... We are happy but if somebody leaves we have to be ready to act." West Ham, who have lost their opening two league games of the new season, travel to Newcastle United when Premier League action resumes on Saturday.

EPL transfer window: West Ham manager Bilic planning to bring new player

Manchester United survived a scare to reach the League Cup final after Oumar Niasse&#39;s late goal earned Hull City a 2-1 victory in Thursday&#39;s semi-final second leg.

Leading 2-0 from the first leg, United saw their advantage at an ice-cold KCOM Stadium halved by Tom Huddlestone&#39;s 35th-minute penalty and then restored by Paul Pogba&#39;s second-half strike.

Niasse&#39;s goal set up a nervy finish for Jose Mourinho&#39;s men, but they survived to complete a 3-2 aggregate win that sets up a date with Southampton in the final at Wembley on February 26.

It will be United&#39;s first League Cup final since 2010, when they beat Aston Villa 2-1, and with Southampton having cleared Liverpool from their path, they will go into the game as favourites.

Hull once again showed signs of stiffened resolve under new coach Marco Silva and could console themselves with a first win over United since a 2-0 success at the old Boothferry Park in November 1974.

The club also used the occasion to show their support for Ryan Mason, recovering in hospital after fracturing his skull at Chelsea on Sunday, with T-shirts bearing his name and a minute&#39;s applause.

A paltry home crowd reflected both the significant edge that Marouane Fellaini&#39;s late header had given United in the first leg and ongoing dissent towards Hull&#39;s owner Assem Allam.

Silva&#39;s decision to make seven changes to his starting XI, meanwhile, did not seem to indicate a desperate desire to turn the tie around.

But almost from the off the cohesive football all came from Hull and it was United who looked a team of strangers, with centre-backs Phil Jones and Chris Smalling conspicuously unconvincing.

Hull had the first serious attempt of the match, David de Gea boxing away a free-kick from Sam Clucas, and the United goalkeeper was soon involved again.

Smalling penalty shout

After allowing Huddlestone&#39;s up-and-under to drift over his head, Smalling had to make a last-ditch block to thwart Michael Dawson and Niasse&#39;s follow-up was fisted away by De Gea.

The hosts duly took the lead on the night in the 35th minute, Huddlestone planting his spot-kick low to De Gea&#39;s right after Marcos Rojo was penalised for tugging Harry Maguire&#39;s shirt.

It took United until the 38th minute to register a shot on target, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic&#39;s side-foot effort palmed behind by David Marshall.

United had three penalty appeals early in the second half and while the first and third centred on Pogba and Marcus Rashford going to ground too easily, the second was more compelling.

After seizing on a loose ball inside the Hull box, Smalling appeared to be pushed in the chest by Huddlestone, sending him down, but referee Jon Mess shook his head.

If Huddlestone got away with one there, fortune deserted him in the 66th minute.

Having tracking Rashford&#39;s run towards the byline on the United left, he managed to toe the ball away, but could only send it into the path of Pogba, who stabbed a low shot past Marshall.

Their nerves eased, United threatened to move out of sight, Ibrahimovic seeing a shot blocked by Dawson after dancing past Huddlestone and Rojo clipping the bar with a header.

But Niasse then headed against the bar at the other end and with five minutes remaining he gave Hull victory in the game -- if not the tie -- by tucking away David Meyler&#39;s volleyed cross.

(AFP)

Manchester United beat Hull City 3-2 on aggregate and will meet Southampton in Wembley

Manchester United survived a scare to reach the League Cup final after Oumar Niasse's late goal earned Hull City a 2-1 victory in Thursday's semi-final second leg. Leading 2-0 from the first leg, United saw their advantage at an ice-cold KCOM Stadium halved by Tom Huddlestone's 35th-minute penalty and then restored by Paul Pogba's second-half strike. Niasse's goal set up a nervy finish for Jose Mourinho's men, but they survived to complete a 3-2 aggregate win that sets up a date with Southampton in the final at Wembley on February 26. It will be United's first League Cup final since 2010, when they beat Aston Villa 2-1, and with Southampton having cleared Liverpool from their path, they will go into the game as favourites. Hull once again showed signs of stiffened resolve under new coach Marco Silva and could console themselves with a first win over United since a 2-0 success at the old Boothferry Park in November 1974. The club also used the occasion to show their support for Ryan Mason, recovering in hospital after fracturing his skull at Chelsea on Sunday, with T-shirts bearing his name and a minute's applause. A paltry home crowd reflected both the significant edge that Marouane Fellaini's late header had given United in the first leg and ongoing dissent towards Hull's owner Assem Allam. Silva's decision to make seven changes to his starting XI, meanwhile, did not seem to indicate a desperate desire to turn the tie around. But almost from the off the cohesive football all came from Hull and it was United who looked a team of strangers, with centre-backs Phil Jones and Chris Smalling conspicuously unconvincing. Hull had the first serious attempt of the match, David de Gea boxing away a free-kick from Sam Clucas, and the United goalkeeper was soon involved again. Smalling penalty shout After allowing Huddlestone's up-and-under to drift over his head, Smalling had to make a last-ditch block to thwart Michael Dawson and Niasse's follow-up was fisted away by De Gea. The hosts duly took the lead on the night in the 35th minute, Huddlestone planting his spot-kick low to De Gea's right after Marcos Rojo was penalised for tugging Harry Maguire's shirt. It took United until the 38th minute to register a shot on target, with Zlatan Ibrahimovic's side-foot effort palmed behind by David Marshall. United had three penalty appeals early in the second half and while the first and third centred on Pogba and Marcus Rashford going to ground too easily, the second was more compelling. After seizing on a loose ball inside the Hull box, Smalling appeared to be pushed in the chest by Huddlestone, sending him down, but referee Jon Mess shook his head. If Huddlestone got away with one there, fortune deserted him in the 66th minute. Having tracking Rashford's run towards the byline on the United left, he managed to toe the ball away, but could only send it into the path of Pogba, who stabbed a low shot past Marshall. Their nerves eased, United threatened to move out of sight, Ibrahimovic seeing a shot blocked by Dawson after dancing past Huddlestone and Rojo clipping the bar with a header. But Niasse then headed against the bar at the other end and with five minutes remaining he gave Hull victory in the game -- if not the tie -- by tucking away David Meyler's volleyed cross. (AFP)

League Cup: Manchester United lose at Hull but progress to final

Southampton reached the League Cup final for the first time since 1979 after a 1-0 victory against Liverpool in the semi-final second leg on Wednesday.

Claude Puel&#39;s team secured a 2-0 aggregate triumph thanks to a clinical finish from Shane Long in second-half stoppage-time at Anfield.

Southampton, who lost their only previous League Cup final against Nottingham Forest, will face Manchester United or Hull in this year&#39;s showpiece at Wembley on February 26.

United lead 2-0 from the first leg heading into the return at Hull on Thursday.

(AFP)

Southampton will await the winner of Hull City and Manchester United in their first final since 1979

Southampton reached the League Cup final for the first time since 1979 after a 1-0 victory against Liverpool in the semi-final second leg on Wednesday. Claude Puel's team secured a 2-0 aggregate triumph thanks to a clinical finish from Shane Long in second-half stoppage-time at Anfield. Southampton, who lost their only previous League Cup final against Nottingham Forest, will face Manchester United or Hull in this year's showpiece at Wembley on February 26. United lead 2-0 from the first leg heading into the return at Hull on Thursday. (AFP)

League Cup: Southampton stun Liverpool 2-0 to enter final

Anthony Martial and Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice each to help Manchester United ease into the League Cup semi-finals with a 4-1 home victory over West Ham United on Wednesday as Arsenal suffered a 2-0 home defeat by Southampton.

Martial netted twice in the second half to take the tie at Old Trafford away from West Ham, who had levelled through Ashley Fletcher following Ibrahimovic&#39;s opener after two minutes. The Swede added the fourth deep into stoppage-time.

Southampton clinched their first appearance in the last four of the competition since 1987 with powerful first-half efforts from Jordy Clasie and Ryan Bertrand against a weakened Arsenal, who made 10 changes to their side.

United were then drawn to face Hull City in the semi-finals and Southampton will play Liverpool.

United and West Ham met at the same venue in the Premier League on Sunday when United boss Jose Mourinho let his frustrations boil over and earned a second touchline ban of the season for booting a water bottle.

The Portuguese was banned from the dugout on Wednesday, but would have been delighted with the way United carved open their opponents after just two minutes with a fluent break.

West Ham opened the scoring on Sunday equally early, but they were caught cold as Wayne Rooney, one goal short of Bobby Charlton&#39;s all-time club scoring record, fed Henrikh Mkhitaryan, whose backheel picked out Ibrahimovic to dink the ball into the net.

The Swede should have doubled the lead when he waltzed through the heart of the West Ham defence before twice being denied by keeper Adrian.

That could have proved a costly miss because for all United&#39;s first-half dominance, they were pegged back 10 minutes before the break by one of their former players.

Having come through the youth ranks at United, Fletcher was allowed to join West Ham in the close season and punished his former employers by scoring from close range after David de Gea had spilled a shot from Dimitri Payet.

Payet, however, was the villain two minutes after halftime as his poor clearance was pounced on and fed to Mkhitaryan, who claimed his second assist by laying the ball off for Martial to blast past Adrian.

With 30 minutes remaining, Martial grabbed his second, tapping home Antonio Valencia&#39;s cross before Ibrahimovic added the fourth from close range.

&quot;Goals plus performance means the real happiness,&quot; Mourinho, who would not divulge where he watched the match, told Sky Sports.

&quot;The performance is something we are used to, we are playing very well at home. Today was more of the same.&quot;

The League Cup has not been kind to Arsenal in recent years with the club having now progressed from just one of their previous six quarter-finals, which was perhaps the reason why manager Arsene Wenger chose to make wholesale changes to his side to face Southampton.

The Saints began the brighter and were ahead after just 12 minutes when Dutchman Clasie fired powerfully into the net for his first goal for the club.

The lead was doubled eight minutes before the break when Carl Jenkinson was outmuscled deep in his own half, allowing Sofiane Boufal to break and tee up Bertrand to drill a low finish into the bottom corner.

(Reuters)

Manchester United eased into the League Cup semi-finals with a 4-1 home victory over West Ham United

Anthony Martial and Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored twice each to help Manchester United ease into the League Cup semi-finals with a 4-1 home victory over West Ham United on Wednesday as Arsenal suffered a 2-0 home defeat by Southampton. Martial netted twice in the second half to take the tie at Old Trafford away from West Ham, who had levelled through Ashley Fletcher following Ibrahimovic's opener after two minutes. The Swede added the fourth deep into stoppage-time. Southampton clinched their first appearance in the last four of the competition since 1987 with powerful first-half efforts from Jordy Clasie and Ryan Bertrand against a weakened Arsenal, who made 10 changes to their side. United were then drawn to face Hull City in the semi-finals and Southampton will play Liverpool. United and West Ham met at the same venue in the Premier League on Sunday when United boss Jose Mourinho let his frustrations boil over and earned a second touchline ban of the season for booting a water bottle. The Portuguese was banned from the dugout on Wednesday, but would have been delighted with the way United carved open their opponents after just two minutes with a fluent break. West Ham opened the scoring on Sunday equally early, but they were caught cold as Wayne Rooney, one goal short of Bobby Charlton's all-time club scoring record, fed Henrikh Mkhitaryan, whose backheel picked out Ibrahimovic to dink the ball into the net. The Swede should have doubled the lead when he waltzed through the heart of the West Ham defence before twice being denied by keeper Adrian. That could have proved a costly miss because for all United's first-half dominance, they were pegged back 10 minutes before the break by one of their former players. Having come through the youth ranks at United, Fletcher was allowed to join West Ham in the close season and punished his former employers by scoring from close range after David de Gea had spilled a shot from Dimitri Payet. Payet, however, was the villain two minutes after halftime as his poor clearance was pounced on and fed to Mkhitaryan, who claimed his second assist by laying the ball off for Martial to blast past Adrian. With 30 minutes remaining, Martial grabbed his second, tapping home Antonio Valencia's cross before Ibrahimovic added the fourth from close range. "Goals plus performance means the real happiness," Mourinho, who would not divulge where he watched the match, told Sky Sports. "The performance is something we are used to, we are playing very well at home. Today was more of the same." The League Cup has not been kind to Arsenal in recent years with the club having now progressed from just one of their previous six quarter-finals, which was perhaps the reason why manager Arsene Wenger chose to make wholesale changes to his side to face Southampton. The Saints began the brighter and were ahead after just 12 minutes when Dutchman Clasie fired powerfully into the net for his first goal for the club. The lead was doubled eight minutes before the break when Carl Jenkinson was outmuscled deep in his own half, allowing Sofiane Boufal to break and tee up Bertrand to drill a low finish into the bottom corner. (Reuters)

Football: Man United sweep past West Ham, Arsenal ousted by Southampton

Juan Mata swept home to steer Manchester United into the League Cup quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over holders and bitter local rivals Manchester City on Wednesday as Jose Mourinho got one over old adversary Pep Guardiola.

Mata rifled in a low finish past City keeper Willy Caballero early in the second half at Old Trafford on a night of few chances but plenty of derby fervour as United boss Mourinho won the tactical battle against Guardiola&#39;s much-changed City side.

The result lifted some of the pressure off Mourinho following Sunday&#39;s 4-0 defeat to Chelsea, but for his old sparring partner, Guardiola, it was a sixth successive game without victory, his longest winless streak as a manager.

West Ham United also moved into the last eight after they overcame Chelsea 2-1 in a London derby spoiled by ugly scenes of fan violence at the end of the game, while Southampton heaped more misery on struggling Sunderland with a 1-0 victory.

Recent results and the gathering pressure on both Mourinho and Guardiola ensured the clash at Old Trafford had all the usual spice of a derby encounter even if City made nine changes to their side against a virtually full-strength United team.

City should have gone ahead after two minutes, but Kelechi Iheanacho darted in front of his marker to direct his header hopelessly off target from close range.

United offered little attacking threat, but gained control of possession as the match wore on and were the more dangerous side for most of the encounter.

It took until the start of the second half, however, for them to create a meaningful chance when Paul Pogba&#39;s low shot was turned onto the post by Caballero, sparking an onslaught from the home side that ended with Mata&#39;s opener on 54 minutes.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic shrugged off a challenge then played the ball back towards Ander Herrera, who went down dramatically in the box but Mata was following up to powerfully steer the ball home.

Derby Knockout

Then it was just a case of holding on, which they did comfortably, as Mourinho recorded his fourth victory over Guardiola in a rivalry spanning 18 matches.

The greater satisfaction for the Portuguese, however, seemed to be erasing some of the negativity of Sunday&#39;s thrashing by his former club Chelsea.

&quot;The fans felt deeply such a negative result and today was a good chance to clear that feeling because a derby knockout and to win gives everyone a better feeling,&quot; he said.

West Ham&#39;s woeful start to the season is turning round and the revival continued in the first derby at their new London Stadium home.

Tight security arrangements, including a ban on the sale of alcohol in the vicinity of the Olympic Park, was intended to prevent flashpoints off the pitch, but there were still ugly scenes towards the end as rival fans clashed behind the goal with several seats being ripped out.

On the pitch, a vibrant West Ham proved too strong for a Chelsea side much-changed from their weekend trouncing of Manchester United.

Cheikhou Kouyate put the Hammers on their way to a third consecutive win with a thumping header from skipper Mark Noble&rsquo;s driven cross after 11 minutes and Edimilson Fernandes beat Asmir Begovic with a low shot three minutes after the restart.

Gary Cahill did grab a Chelsea consolation in stoppage time but by that time all eyes were on stewards trying to keep rival fans apart.

Southampton&#39;s record signing Sofiane Boufal scored from long range in the second half in their 1-0 victory over Sunderland, a fourth defeat in five games for Sunderland manager David Moyes.

(Reuters)

The result lifted some of the pressure off Mourinho following Sunday's 4-0 defeat to Chelsea

Juan Mata swept home to steer Manchester United into the League Cup quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over holders and bitter local rivals Manchester City on Wednesday as Jose Mourinho got one over old adversary Pep Guardiola. Mata rifled in a low finish past City keeper Willy Caballero early in the second half at Old Trafford on a night of few chances but plenty of derby fervour as United boss Mourinho won the tactical battle against Guardiola's much-changed City side. The result lifted some of the pressure off Mourinho following Sunday's 4-0 defeat to Chelsea, but for his old sparring partner, Guardiola, it was a sixth successive game without victory, his longest winless streak as a manager. West Ham United also moved into the last eight after they overcame Chelsea 2-1 in a London derby spoiled by ugly scenes of fan violence at the end of the game, while Southampton heaped more misery on struggling Sunderland with a 1-0 victory. Recent results and the gathering pressure on both Mourinho and Guardiola ensured the clash at Old Trafford had all the usual spice of a derby encounter even if City made nine changes to their side against a virtually full-strength United team. City should have gone ahead after two minutes, but Kelechi Iheanacho darted in front of his marker to direct his header hopelessly off target from close range. United offered little attacking threat, but gained control of possession as the match wore on and were the more dangerous side for most of the encounter. It took until the start of the second half, however, for them to create a meaningful chance when Paul Pogba's low shot was turned onto the post by Caballero, sparking an onslaught from the home side that ended with Mata's opener on 54 minutes. Zlatan Ibrahimovic shrugged off a challenge then played the ball back towards Ander Herrera, who went down dramatically in the box but Mata was following up to powerfully steer the ball home. Derby Knockout Then it was just a case of holding on, which they did comfortably, as Mourinho recorded his fourth victory over Guardiola in a rivalry spanning 18 matches. The greater satisfaction for the Portuguese, however, seemed to be erasing some of the negativity of Sunday's thrashing by his former club Chelsea. "The fans felt deeply such a negative result and today was a good chance to clear that feeling because a derby knockout and to win gives everyone a better feeling," he said. West Ham's woeful start to the season is turning round and the revival continued in the first derby at their new London Stadium home. Tight security arrangements, including a ban on the sale of alcohol in the vicinity of the Olympic Park, was intended to prevent flashpoints off the pitch, but there were still ugly scenes towards the end as rival fans clashed behind the goal with several seats being ripped out. On the pitch, a vibrant West Ham proved too strong for a Chelsea side much-changed from their weekend trouncing of Manchester United. Cheikhou Kouyate put the Hammers on their way to a third consecutive win with a thumping header from skipper Mark Noble’s driven cross after 11 minutes and Edimilson Fernandes beat Asmir Begovic with a low shot three minutes after the restart. Gary Cahill did grab a Chelsea consolation in stoppage time but by that time all eyes were on stewards trying to keep rival fans apart. Southampton's record signing Sofiane Boufal scored from long range in the second half in their 1-0 victory over Sunderland, a fourth defeat in five games for Sunderland manager David Moyes. (Reuters)

Football: ManU beat holders Man City 1-0, reach League Cup quarter-final

Daniel Sturridge scored twice as Liverpool strolled into the League Cup third round with a 5-0 win at Burton Albion yesterday, while Chelsea edged third-tier Bristol Rovers 3-2. 
 
Divock Origi, Roberto Firmino and Sturridge all scored as Liverpool, last season&#39;s beaten finalists, crushed Championship side Burton, who are managed by ex-Liverpool midfielder Nigel Clough. 
 
Michy Batshuayi marked his full Chelsea debut with a brace against Bristol Rovers, while Victor Moses was also on target as manager Antonio Conte enjoyed a third straight competitive win. 
 
&quot;This was a very serious, professional display from our side,&quot; Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp told Sky Sports. 
 
&quot;There were nice goals, nothing to criticise. It was humid today, not easy for either team. We gave a few players match-time because that&#39;s important. Some only got minutes in pre-season.&quot; 
 
Premier League teams Crystal Palace, Everton, Hull City, Swansea City and Stoke City also went through, Peter Crouch scoring a hat-trick for Stoke in a 4-0 win at Stevenage. But Watford lost 2-1 at home to third-tier Gillingham after extra time and West Bromwich Albion were beaten 4-3 on penalties by League One side Northampton Town following a 2-2 draw. 
 
Klopp handed a debut to Cameroonian centre-back Joel Matip and welcomed back Senegalese winger Sadio Mane following a shoulder injury at Burton&#39;s Pirelli Stadium. 
 
Mane teed up Origi to break the deadlock with a clever back-heel in the 15th minute before Nathaniel Clyne crossed for Firmino to head in the visitors&#39; second goal. 
 
A Tom Naylor own goal just after the hour made it 3-0 and Sturridge came off the bench to complete the rout with a late brace, tapping in James Milner&#39;s cross and slamming home from Mane&#39;s pass. 
 
At Stamford Bridge, Batshuayi put Chelsea ahead in the 29th minute by sweeping in Nemanja Matic&#39;s cross and two minutes later Pedro Rodriguez set up Moses for a tap-in. 
 
Batshuayi claimed a second from Ruben Loftus-Cheek&#39;s cross, but Bristol Rovers scored either side through Peter Hartley and Ellis Harrison to keep Conte&#39;s men on their toes until the final whistle. 
 
Liverpool and Chelsea, League Cup winners in 2015, both entered the tournament in the second round because they are not involved in European competition this season. 
 
Manchester United, holders Manchester City, Arsenal, Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton and West Ham United will all enter the competition in round three. 
 
(AFP)

Premier League teams Crystal Palace, Everton, Hull City, Swansea City and Stoke City also went through

Daniel Sturridge scored twice as Liverpool strolled into the League Cup third round with a 5-0 win at Burton Albion yesterday, while Chelsea edged third-tier Bristol Rovers 3-2. Divock Origi, Roberto Firmino and Sturridge all scored as Liverpool, last season's beaten finalists, crushed Championship side Burton, who are managed by ex-Liverpool midfielder Nigel Clough. Michy Batshuayi marked his full Chelsea debut with a brace against Bristol Rovers, while Victor Moses was also on target as manager Antonio Conte enjoyed a third straight competitive win. "This was a very serious, professional display from our side," Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp told Sky Sports. "There were nice goals, nothing to criticise. It was humid today, not easy for either team. We gave a few players match-time because that's important. Some only got minutes in pre-season." Premier League teams Crystal Palace, Everton, Hull City, Swansea City and Stoke City also went through, Peter Crouch scoring a hat-trick for Stoke in a 4-0 win at Stevenage. But Watford lost 2-1 at home to third-tier Gillingham after extra time and West Bromwich Albion were beaten 4-3 on penalties by League One side Northampton Town following a 2-2 draw. Klopp handed a debut to Cameroonian centre-back Joel Matip and welcomed back Senegalese winger Sadio Mane following a shoulder injury at Burton's Pirelli Stadium. Mane teed up Origi to break the deadlock with a clever back-heel in the 15th minute before Nathaniel Clyne crossed for Firmino to head in the visitors' second goal. A Tom Naylor own goal just after the hour made it 3-0 and Sturridge came off the bench to complete the rout with a late brace, tapping in James Milner's cross and slamming home from Mane's pass. At Stamford Bridge, Batshuayi put Chelsea ahead in the 29th minute by sweeping in Nemanja Matic's cross and two minutes later Pedro Rodriguez set up Moses for a tap-in. Batshuayi claimed a second from Ruben Loftus-Cheek's cross, but Bristol Rovers scored either side through Peter Hartley and Ellis Harrison to keep Conte's men on their toes until the final whistle. Liverpool and Chelsea, League Cup winners in 2015, both entered the tournament in the second round because they are not involved in European competition this season. Manchester United, holders Manchester City, Arsenal, Leicester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton and West Ham United will all enter the competition in round three. (AFP)

Liverpool cruise, Chelsea squeeze in League Cup

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