When Liverpool were last crowned English champions, in April 1990, Margaret Thatcher was prime minister and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> was two years away from its glitzy launch.

Now Jurgen Klopp's runaway leaders are a Manchester City stumble away from once again ruling the roost after seeing off Crystal Palace 4-0 on Wednesday.

If City fail to beat Chelsea on Thursday, then it will all be over.

In 1990 it was business as usual for Kenny Dalglish's dominant Reds, who had finished in the top two every year since 1973, apart from one season.

Their triumph came a year after the trauma of the Hillsborough disaster, which claimed the lives of 96 Liverpool fans after a terrace crush.

Off the pitch, Britain was in the final months of Thatcher's long premiership.

Fierce opposition to the ruling Conservative Party's plans for a "poll tax", which included riots in London, contributed to her downfall in&nbsp;November 1990.

Britain still faced a threat from the Irish Republican Army and was heading for an economic recession.

<h2>- Liverpool change -</h2>

The city of Liverpool suffered high unemployment and rioting during the turbulent 1980s.

Joe Moran, professor of English and cultural history at Liverpool John Moores University, said northern cities suffered during Britain's accelerated economic transformation under Thatcher from a traditional manufacturing base towards a more service-based, consumer-oriented economy.&nbsp;

Liverpool's long-term decline as a port exacerbated the problems.

"The year 1990 wasn't the bleakest year in the city's history but it was just coming out of it," said Moran.

"Hillsborough happened a year before and it wasn't really until the mid-1990s that the city was being transformed, partly because it was coming out of recession, and through European funding.

"Winning the title, it was more important because the city was going through quite a hard time."

<h2>- TV riches -</h2>

The football landscape was also radically different three decades ago, with the English game yet to be flooded with the TV riches that came with the launch of the Premier League.&nbsp;

Bryan Robson remained the most expensive footballer traded between English clubs, nine years after his £1.5 million ($1.9 million) transfer from West Brom to Manchester United.

Moran said the 1990 World Cup in Italy was a catalyst for the "complete transformation" of football.

"I think the commercial changes to football since 1990 are in some ways a more extreme version of what happened in society," he said.&nbsp;

"They were a sort of turbo-capitalism, a hyper-mercenary trade" in which a small group of clubs powered away from the rest financially.

Manchester United, under Alex Ferguson, were in prime position to take advantage of the money flooding into the game, establishing a dominance to match Liverpool's in the previous two decades.

But they are just one of seven different clubs who have won the English top-flight since 1990 on a list that includes Blackburn and Leicester.

Joe Blott, chairman of the Spirit of Shankly supporters group, says Liverpool's last title is a fading memory.

"You have to be about 40 years of age to remember the last time Liverpool won it," he said. "There's almost a generation-and-a-half of fans who are waiting to see Liverpool win the league for the first time.

Blott, 59, said the game itself had changed from a national league to a "global commodity".

Chelsea, backed by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, and Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City have invested huge sums to win seven Premier League titles in the last 10 years.

Liverpool are also now American-owned, but Blott believes the Fenway Sports Group has invested wisely after the troubled days under previous American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett.

Blott reserves special praise for Klopp, who he says has produced a side that mixes flair and steel to stand alongside the great teams of the past.

"At the moment we have got for the first time since the heady days of winning everything the Holy Trinity of manager, players and fans pulling in the same way," he said.

"He just gets us," he said, talking about Klopp. "He's immersed in the Scouse, Liverpool mentality. He understands what it's like to be a football fan.&nbsp;

"He ensures everyone is part of the victories, part of the losses. If ever there was a son of (former manager Bill) Shankly it's certainly Klopp."

When Liverpool were last crowned English champions, in April 1990, Margaret Thatcher was prime minister and the Premier League was two years away from its glitzy launch.

When Liverpool were last crowned English champions, in April 1990, Margaret Thatcher was prime minister and the Premier League was two years away from its glitzy launch. Now Jurgen Klopp's runaway leaders are a Manchester City stumble away from once again ruling the roost after seeing off Crystal Palace 4-0 on Wednesday. If City fail to beat Chelsea on Thursday, then it will all be over. In 1990 it was business as usual for Kenny Dalglish's dominant Reds, who had finished in the top two every year since 1973, apart from one season. Their triumph came a year after the trauma of the Hillsborough disaster, which claimed the lives of 96 Liverpool fans after a terrace crush. Off the pitch, Britain was in the final months of Thatcher's long premiership. Fierce opposition to the ruling Conservative Party's plans for a "poll tax", which included riots in London, contributed to her downfall in November 1990. Britain still faced a threat from the Irish Republican Army and was heading for an economic recession. - Liverpool change - The city of Liverpool suffered high unemployment and rioting during the turbulent 1980s. Joe Moran, professor of English and cultural history at Liverpool John Moores University, said northern cities suffered during Britain's accelerated economic transformation under Thatcher from a traditional manufacturing base towards a more service-based, consumer-oriented economy. Liverpool's long-term decline as a port exacerbated the problems. "The year 1990 wasn't the bleakest year in the city's history but it was just coming out of it," said Moran. "Hillsborough happened a year before and it wasn't really until the mid-1990s that the city was being transformed, partly because it was coming out of recession, and through European funding. "Winning the title, it was more important because the city was going through quite a hard time." - TV riches - The football landscape was also radically different three decades ago, with the English game yet to be flooded with the TV riches that came with the launch of the Premier League. Bryan Robson remained the most expensive footballer traded between English clubs, nine years after his £1.5 million ($1.9 million) transfer from West Brom to Manchester United. Moran said the 1990 World Cup in Italy was a catalyst for the "complete transformation" of football. "I think the commercial changes to football since 1990 are in some ways a more extreme version of what happened in society," he said. "They were a sort of turbo-capitalism, a hyper-mercenary trade" in which a small group of clubs powered away from the rest financially. Manchester United, under Alex Ferguson, were in prime position to take advantage of the money flooding into the game, establishing a dominance to match Liverpool's in the previous two decades. But they are just one of seven different clubs who have won the English top-flight since 1990 on a list that includes Blackburn and Leicester. Joe Blott, chairman of the Spirit of Shankly supporters group, says Liverpool's last title is a fading memory. "You have to be about 40 years of age to remember the last time Liverpool won it," he said. "There's almost a generation-and-a-half of fans who are waiting to see Liverpool win the league for the first time. Blott, 59, said the game itself had changed from a national league to a "global commodity". Chelsea, backed by Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich, and Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City have invested huge sums to win seven Premier League titles in the last 10 years. Liverpool are also now American-owned, but Blott believes the Fenway Sports Group has invested wisely after the troubled days under previous American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett. Blott reserves special praise for Klopp, who he says has produced a side that mixes flair and steel to stand alongside the great teams of the past. "At the moment we have got for the first time since the heady days of winning everything the Holy Trinity of manager, players and fans pulling in the same way," he said. "He just gets us," he said, talking about Klopp. "He's immersed in the Scouse, Liverpool mentality. He understands what it's like to be a football fan. "He ensures everyone is part of the victories, part of the losses. If ever there was a son of (former manager Bill) Shankly it's certainly Klopp."

New generation of Liverpool fans prepares for title glory

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is delighted his side have the chance to win a first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/premier-league">Premier League</a> title in 30 years on the field after the uncertainty of a three-month halt to the season due to coronavirus.

The Reds hold a commanding 22-point lead at the top of the table and will seal the much-awaited title with victories over Everton on Sunday and when Crystal Palace visit Anfield on Wednesday.

Had the Premier League not been able to resume with the UK the worst-hit country in Europe from COVID-19, various proposals were discussed as to how the campaign would be decided.

The idea of declaring the season null and void gained little support and Klopp was relieved when that was taken off the table with Liverpool on course to smash a series of records after 29 games.

"I became worried in the moment when people started talking about null and void the season because I was like 'wow', I felt it physically because that would have been really, really, really hard," Klopp said in a pre-match videoconference ahead of Liverpool's return to action.

Had the Premier League followed the example of some other leagues around Europe by ending the season on a points-per-game basis, Liverpool would already be champions.

But Klopp is glad to have the opportunity to win it on the pitch, even if no fans will be in the stadium to witness the historic moment.

"We don't expect to get it as a present so we did not want it to happen on points-per-game (PPG). We were really happy when it was decided we could play again," he added.

"There were moments, you know how long the discussions were, people brought it up (null and void) from time to time for different reasons. When that was off the table I felt quite relieved.

"Now we are here. If they had done PPG and we could not have played we would probably be champions. Now we aren't, we have to play for it.

"That is great, that is how it should be in sports. Now we go for it. We do not think in our mind we are already there."

Liverpool will join the Premier League wide movement to support the Black Lives Matter (BLM) campaign with BLM replacing players' names on the back of shirts this weekend.

Klopp's squad took a knee on their return to group training earlier this month in solidarity with the fight against racial injustice.

The first two Premier League games of the restart on Wednesday were also preceded by all players and officials taking a knee.

Klopp has been outspoken on political and societal issues in the past and labelled the need to still be fighting racism in 2020 as "unbelievably dumb".&nbsp;

"If football is a role model for anything in life it is for that, that everybody is the exactly same, wherever you come from, it is all about who you are, not which colour you are," he added.

"It's so unbelievably dumb not to do it like this, it is really hard for me to even understand it.

"But it is like this so we have to stand up or we have to kneel down, whatever we have to do we will do just to solve this situation for now and for the future because the past we cannot change, but the future we can change."

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is delighted his side have the chance to win a first Premier League title in 30 years on the field after the uncertainty of a three-month halt to the season due to coronavirus.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is delighted his side have the chance to win a first Premier League title in 30 years on the field after the uncertainty of a three-month halt to the season due to coronavirus. The Reds hold a commanding 22-point lead at the top of the table and will seal the much-awaited title with victories over Everton on Sunday and when Crystal Palace visit Anfield on Wednesday. Had the Premier League not been able to resume with the UK the worst-hit country in Europe from COVID-19, various proposals were discussed as to how the campaign would be decided. The idea of declaring the season null and void gained little support and Klopp was relieved when that was taken off the table with Liverpool on course to smash a series of records after 29 games. "I became worried in the moment when people started talking about null and void the season because I was like 'wow', I felt it physically because that would have been really, really, really hard," Klopp said in a pre-match videoconference ahead of Liverpool's return to action. Had the Premier League followed the example of some other leagues around Europe by ending the season on a points-per-game basis, Liverpool would already be champions. But Klopp is glad to have the opportunity to win it on the pitch, even if no fans will be in the stadium to witness the historic moment. "We don't expect to get it as a present so we did not want it to happen on points-per-game (PPG). We were really happy when it was decided we could play again," he added. "There were moments, you know how long the discussions were, people brought it up (null and void) from time to time for different reasons. When that was off the table I felt quite relieved. "Now we are here. If they had done PPG and we could not have played we would probably be champions. Now we aren't, we have to play for it. "That is great, that is how it should be in sports. Now we go for it. We do not think in our mind we are already there." Liverpool will join the Premier League wide movement to support the Black Lives Matter (BLM) campaign with BLM replacing players' names on the back of shirts this weekend. Klopp's squad took a knee on their return to group training earlier this month in solidarity with the fight against racial injustice. The first two Premier League games of the restart on Wednesday were also preceded by all players and officials taking a knee. Klopp has been outspoken on political and societal issues in the past and labelled the need to still be fighting racism in 2020 as "unbelievably dumb". "If football is a role model for anything in life it is for that, that everybody is the exactly same, wherever you come from, it is all about who you are, not which colour you are," he added. "It's so unbelievably dumb not to do it like this, it is really hard for me to even understand it. "But it is like this so we have to stand up or we have to kneel down, whatever we have to do we will do just to solve this situation for now and for the future because the past we cannot change, but the future we can change."

Klopp relieved to escape 'null and void' outcome in Premier League

The Premier League is gearing up for resumption of the 2019-20 season after the clubs unanimously voted in favour of contact training on Wednesday. The English top-flight league is eyeing June 19/20 as the possible dates for the return of the halted season and, in all likelihood, Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool will be crowned champions of England after a 30-year wait.&nbsp;

Not only the United Kingdom but the entire world has witnessed unprecedented scenarios created by the dreaded COVID-19. While some countries have tackled it well and are heading towards the resumption of normal activities, the Premier League will come as a fresh breath of air for fans of the most-watched league in the world.&nbsp;

Former Liverpool captain John Barnes, in an exclusive interview&nbsp;with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo,&nbsp;spoke on a range of topics as he discussed&nbsp;Liverpool’s stellar season and what separated them from Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.&nbsp;

Read the complete interview:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/john-barnes-liverpool-on-the-verge-of-starting-another-great-era-of-domination-301606" hreflang="en">John Barnes: Liverpool on the verge of starting another great era of domination</a>

Liverpool came mighty close to lifting the Premier League trophy last season only to see Manchester City topple them for the coveted title by just one point. However, Liverpool went on to lift their sixth UEFA Champions Trophy and the Club World Cup last season in what was regarded as a splendid season for the Reds.&nbsp;

While Manchester City faltered in the 2019-20 season, Liverpool maintained the consistency and took a&nbsp;25-point lead atop the Premier League table and when the most-watched league in the world resumes, the Reds will look to complete the formality and put the red bands on the Premier League trophy, ending a two-season winning run for Guardiola's Man City.

Barnes hopes that Klopp will continue to motivate the players and win more trophies in future while adding that this could be a start of another great era for the Reds.&nbsp;

"Hopefully, the season will start soon. There are a lot of people who are pushing for the season to be scrapped and straightaway begins the next campaign, which is ridiculous. The German Bundesliga plans to finish the current campaign by the end of June, which leaves them with more than enough time to begin the next season as scheduled. So the Premier League can also easily follow that precedent and finish the current season in about six weeks or two months," Barnes said.&nbsp;

"As for Liverpool, I think unless there is a calamity, they are going to crowned champions. I think it's not just about this season, the team cannot take their foot off the gas and rest on their laurels if they do manage to win the Premier League. A true marker of success is being able to win trophies for a sustained period of time. The team will enjoy the triumph, but then the focus should shift to the next season. Jurgen Klopp will hopefully drive the players to maintain such levels of performance in the years to come. I hope this is the start of another great era in the history of the club when the Reds can challenge for the domestic league title and Champions League title every season, as they did in the past. The league triumph will no doubt be fantastic for the club, but the success must not stop there," the former Liverpool skipper added.

<img alt="Liverpool" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c11c4b22-dcd2-45a3-bafa-fb7cdf5b1547" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1O90DU.jpg" />

Interestingly, Liverpool have lost just one Premier League in the 2018-19 season in what has been termed as one of the greatest seasons, if not the greatest, in the history of English top-flight football. Barnes is of the view that Man City suffered a dip due to injuries to key defenders, whereas Liverpool have learned not to take that foot off the gas during crucial moments in the league. The former left-winger, who also played as an attacking midfielder, said Klopp has maximised club's potential to be consistent.

"Liverpool only lost one Premier League match in the 2018-19 season as well, so it is not as if they are performing considerably better than last year. In fact, I think Liverpool were playing better football last season, but Manchester City was just unstoppable. This season, there has been a dip in city's performances, largely because of they have lost key defensive players to injury. Whereas Liverpool have continued to be consistent, so I think nothing has changed from last season.

"In the 2018-19 campaign, Liverpool missed out on the league title despite having 97 points, but still won the Champions League crown. This season Liverpool have been knocked out of the Champions League in the knockout stages, but are well on their way to win the league crown, so Jurgen Klopp has maximised the club's potential to be consistent. Manchester City have been inconsistent this season, whereas Liverpool have been consistent, that's the difference. Those two teams are still superior to the other teams in the league. It comes as no surprise to me that Liverpool and Manchester City have been the two most successful clubs in England over the last two years, because the manager in both those clubs is truly the man in charge, the power doesn't lie with the owners or the players," Barnes said.

How Klopp and Guardiola have taken control of their respective clubs is something English football has been lacking for a while. Both the managers, highly respected, have authority over their players and that has come as a welcome step for both Liverpool and Man City as they become the two of the most dominating sides in the history of English and world football.

"If Liverpool lose a game, the fans aren't going to blame Klopp. Similarly, if he drops Mo Salah, the club won't get on his back because the players realise that he is the man in charge and the ultimate decision lies with him. At other clubs, when the team loses, the blame is put on the manager rather than the players, which makes the footballers feel more empowered and in a way makes them less accountable. At Liverpool and Manchester City, players will be criticised for poor performances and not just the managers. The most important thing is that the players should know that the manager is the man in charge. Player power is now a big issue all over the world, where players are seen as more important than the managers. The clubs in which the players have been calling the shots have been inconsistent. A manager's role is undermined when the players are made to seem more important," Barnes explained.

The Premier League is gearing up for resumption of the 2019-20 season after the clubs unanimously voted in favour of contact training on Wednesday. The English top-flight league is eyeing June 19/20 as the possible dates for the return of the halted season and, in all likelihood, Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool will be crowned champions of England after a 30-year wait.

The Premier League is gearing up for resumption of the 2019-20 season after the clubs unanimously voted in favour of contact training on Wednesday. The English top-flight league is eyeing June 19/20 as the possible dates for the return of the halted season and, in all likelihood, Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool will be crowned champions of England after a 30-year wait. Not only the United Kingdom but the entire world has witnessed unprecedented scenarios created by the dreaded COVID-19. While some countries have tackled it well and are heading towards the resumption of normal activities, the Premier League will come as a fresh breath of air for fans of the most-watched league in the world. Former Liverpool captain John Barnes, in an exclusive interview with WION’s Sports Editor, Digvijay Singh Deo, spoke on a range of topics as he discussed Liverpool’s stellar season and what separated them from Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. Read the complete interview: John Barnes: Liverpool on the verge of starting another great era of domination Liverpool came mighty close to lifting the Premier League trophy last season only to see Manchester City topple them for the coveted title by just one point. However, Liverpool went on to lift their sixth UEFA Champions Trophy and the Club World Cup last season in what was regarded as a splendid season for the Reds. While Manchester City faltered in the 2019-20 season, Liverpool maintained the consistency and took a 25-point lead atop the Premier League table and when the most-watched league in the world resumes, the Reds will look to complete the formality and put the red bands on the Premier League trophy, ending a two-season winning run for Guardiola's Man City. Barnes hopes that Klopp will continue to motivate the players and win more trophies in future while adding that this could be a start of another great era for the Reds. "Hopefully, the season will start soon. There are a lot of people who are pushing for the season to be scrapped and straightaway begins the next campaign, which is ridiculous. The German Bundesliga plans to finish the current campaign by the end of June, which leaves them with more than enough time to begin the next season as scheduled. So the Premier League can also easily follow that precedent and finish the current season in about six weeks or two months," Barnes said. "As for Liverpool, I think unless there is a calamity, they are going to crowned champions. I think it's not just about this season, the team cannot take their foot off the gas and rest on their laurels if they do manage to win the Premier League. A true marker of success is being able to win trophies for a sustained period of time. The team will enjoy the triumph, but then the focus should shift to the next season. Jurgen Klopp will hopefully drive the players to maintain such levels of performance in the years to come. I hope this is the start of another great era in the history of the club when the Reds can challenge for the domestic league title and Champions League title every season, as they did in the past. The league triumph will no doubt be fantastic for the club, but the success must not stop there," the former Liverpool skipper added. Interestingly, Liverpool have lost just one Premier League in the 2018-19 season in what has been termed as one of the greatest seasons, if not the greatest, in the history of English top-flight football. Barnes is of the view that Man City suffered a dip due to injuries to key defenders, whereas Liverpool have learned not to take that foot off the gas during crucial moments in the league. The former left-winger, who also played as an attacking midfielder, said Klopp has maximised club's potential to be consistent. "Liverpool only lost one Premier League match in the 2018-19 season as well, so it is not as if they are performing considerably better than last year. In fact, I think Liverpool were playing better football last season, but Manchester City was just unstoppable. This season, there has been a dip in city's performances, largely because of they have lost key defensive players to injury. Whereas Liverpool have continued to be consistent, so I think nothing has changed from last season. "In the 2018-19 campaign, Liverpool missed out on the league title despite having 97 points, but still won the Champions League crown. This season Liverpool have been knocked out of the Champions League in the knockout stages, but are well on their way to win the league crown, so Jurgen Klopp has maximised the club's potential to be consistent. Manchester City have been inconsistent this season, whereas Liverpool have been consistent, that's the difference. Those two teams are still superior to the other teams in the league. It comes as no surprise to me that Liverpool and Manchester City have been the two most successful clubs in England over the last two years, because the manager in both those clubs is truly the man in charge, the power doesn't lie with the owners or the players," Barnes said. How Klopp and Guardiola have taken control of their respective clubs is something English football has been lacking for a while. Both the managers, highly respected, have authority over their players and that has come as a welcome step for both Liverpool and Man City as they become the two of the most dominating sides in the history of English and world football. "If Liverpool lose a game, the fans aren't going to blame Klopp. Similarly, if he drops Mo Salah, the club won't get on his back because the players realise that he is the man in charge and the ultimate decision lies with him. At other clubs, when the team loses, the blame is put on the manager rather than the players, which makes the footballers feel more empowered and in a way makes them less accountable. At Liverpool and Manchester City, players will be criticised for poor performances and not just the managers. The most important thing is that the players should know that the manager is the man in charge. Player power is now a big issue all over the world, where players are seen as more important than the managers. The clubs in which the players have been calling the shots have been inconsistent. A manager's role is undermined when the players are made to seem more important," Barnes explained.

John Barnes: League title will be fantastic for Liverpool but success must not stop here

British Police want at least six Premier League matches and any Liverpool title clincher to be played at neutral venues when the season resumes in a bid to avoid supporters gathering outside stadiums.

Premier League chiefs have set June 17 as the date for the top flight to restart following the coronavirus delay.

They hope to play the majority of the matches behind closed doors on a home and away basis at clubs' usual stadiums.

However, police are concerned about the issue of hardcore fans potentially flouting social distancing rules by congregating wherever their team play.

With Liverpool two wins away from clinching their first English title for 30 years and other relegation and European qualification issues to be decided in the remaining 92 fixtures, there is potential for police resources to be stretched if matches draw crowds outside grounds.

Police bosses have spoken to the Premier League about games they consider especially tricky and the matches they requested to take place at neutral grounds are Manchester City v Liverpool, Manchester City v Newcastle, Manchester United v Sheffield United, Newcastle v Liverpool and Everton v Liverpool.

"Our discussions with the Premier League throughout this process have been positive, with a shared focus on the priority of public health," said Deputy Chief Constable Mark Roberts of South Yorkshire Police.

"As such we have reached a consensus that balances the needs of football, while also minimising the demand on policing.

"The majority of remaining matches will be played, at home and away as scheduled, with a small number of fixtures taking place at neutral venues, which, contrary to some reports, have yet to be agreed."

<h2>- Sporting integrity -</h2>

Liverpool could even clinch the title as early as the first weekend of the restart if Manchester City lose to Arsenal and they beat Everton.&nbsp;

The police statement added that "the game in which Liverpool could secure the league title" should also be moved, although that may end up needing to be more than one match if the Reds did not clinch it at the first attempt.

"The Premier League's ambition is to complete all of our remaining fixtures this season home and away, where possible," a Premier League statement said.

"We are working with our clubs to ensure risks are assessed and minimised, while co-operating with the police at a local and national level.

"Discussions with the National Police Chiefs' Council and UK Football Policing Unit have been positive and are continuing. We are prepared for all outcomes and have a neutral venue contingency."

There had been complaints from some clubs towards the bottom of the table, including Brighton, about the impact of playing at neutral venues on sporting integrity.

Brighton chief executive Paul Barber is confident his relegation-threatened side's matches will not be at neutral venues.

"Obviously the majority of home games we expect to be at home for everybody," he said.

"And I understand there are some small number of games where the police do need to look more carefully at the operations for those games.

"But we don't know which games they are, we haven't been given that information so, as far as we're aware of this side, it doesn't affect our club."

Individual police forces were asked which games concerned them and clubs will hold further discussions on whether to proceed with the season on this basis when they meet again on June 4.

It has not yet been decided where neutral games would be staged.

"The views and agreement of forces which host Premier League clubs have been sought and where there were concerns, the Premier League has been supportive in providing flexibility in arranging alternative venues where requested," Roberts said.

British Police want at least six Premier League matches and any Liverpool title clincher to be played at neutral venues when the season resumes in a bid to avoid supporters gathering outside stadiums.

British Police want at least six Premier League matches and any Liverpool title clincher to be played at neutral venues when the season resumes in a bid to avoid supporters gathering outside stadiums. Premier League chiefs have set June 17 as the date for the top flight to restart following the coronavirus delay. They hope to play the majority of the matches behind closed doors on a home and away basis at clubs' usual stadiums. However, police are concerned about the issue of hardcore fans potentially flouting social distancing rules by congregating wherever their team play. With Liverpool two wins away from clinching their first English title for 30 years and other relegation and European qualification issues to be decided in the remaining 92 fixtures, there is potential for police resources to be stretched if matches draw crowds outside grounds. Police bosses have spoken to the Premier League about games they consider especially tricky and the matches they requested to take place at neutral grounds are Manchester City v Liverpool, Manchester City v Newcastle, Manchester United v Sheffield United, Newcastle v Liverpool and Everton v Liverpool. "Our discussions with the Premier League throughout this process have been positive, with a shared focus on the priority of public health," said Deputy Chief Constable Mark Roberts of South Yorkshire Police. "As such we have reached a consensus that balances the needs of football, while also minimising the demand on policing. "The majority of remaining matches will be played, at home and away as scheduled, with a small number of fixtures taking place at neutral venues, which, contrary to some reports, have yet to be agreed." - Sporting integrity - Liverpool could even clinch the title as early as the first weekend of the restart if Manchester City lose to Arsenal and they beat Everton. The police statement added that "the game in which Liverpool could secure the league title" should also be moved, although that may end up needing to be more than one match if the Reds did not clinch it at the first attempt. "The Premier League's ambition is to complete all of our remaining fixtures this season home and away, where possible," a Premier League statement said. "We are working with our clubs to ensure risks are assessed and minimised, while co-operating with the police at a local and national level. "Discussions with the National Police Chiefs' Council and UK Football Policing Unit have been positive and are continuing. We are prepared for all outcomes and have a neutral venue contingency." There had been complaints from some clubs towards the bottom of the table, including Brighton, about the impact of playing at neutral venues on sporting integrity. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber is confident his relegation-threatened side's matches will not be at neutral venues. "Obviously the majority of home games we expect to be at home for everybody," he said. "And I understand there are some small number of games where the police do need to look more carefully at the operations for those games. "But we don't know which games they are, we haven't been given that information so, as far as we're aware of this side, it doesn't affect our club." Individual police forces were asked which games concerned them and clubs will hold further discussions on whether to proceed with the season on this basis when they meet again on June 4. It has not yet been decided where neutral games would be staged. "The views and agreement of forces which host Premier League clubs have been sought and where there were concerns, the Premier League has been supportive in providing flexibility in arranging alternative venues where requested," Roberts said.

Police want Liverpool title clincher played at neutral venue

Liverpool's former Republic of Ireland striker Michael Robinson, who became a well-known commentator in Spain, has died aged 61, his family announced on Tuesday.

Robinson, who settled in Spain after his retirement and had an extensive media career, succumbed to cancer first diagnosed in 2018. He passed away at his home in Marbella.

"With tremendous sadness we inform you of Michael’s death," his family announced on Twitter.

"It leaves us with a great emptiness, but also countless memories, full of the same love that you have shown him.

“We will be eternally grateful to you for making this man SO HAPPY, he never walked alone. Thank you."

After spells with Preston North End and Manchester City Robinson featured in the 1983 FA Cup final for Brighton, before moving to Anfield.

He was part of the Liverpool squad that captured the league, League Cup and European Cup treble in 1984.

"We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former player Michael Robinson, aged 61," Liverpool tweeted.

"The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time. Rest in peace, Michael."

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&nbsp;

After Liverpool, he joined Queens Park Rangers, before ending his career with Spanish side Osasuna.

After retiring in 1989 he remained in Spain to become one of the country's most distinguished football pundits.

According to Spanish daily El Pais, Robinson "revolutionised the way football was analysed".

"He was with us on thousands of afternoons of football, recounting incredible anecdotes, and showing us a way of life beyond football," the paper wrote.

"Thank you Michael Robinson. We will miss you. You'll never walk alone."

Robinson represented the Republic of Ireland 24 times, scoring four goals.

Liverpool's former Republic of Ireland striker Michael Robinson, who became a well-known commentator in Spain, has died aged 61, his family announced on Tuesday.

Liverpool's former Republic of Ireland striker Michael Robinson, who became a well-known commentator in Spain, has died aged 61, his family announced on Tuesday. Robinson, who settled in Spain after his retirement and had an extensive media career, succumbed to cancer first diagnosed in 2018. He passed away at his home in Marbella. "With tremendous sadness we inform you of Michael’s death," his family announced on Twitter. "It leaves us with a great emptiness, but also countless memories, full of the same love that you have shown him. “We will be eternally grateful to you for making this man SO HAPPY, he never walked alone. Thank you." After spells with Preston North End and Manchester City Robinson featured in the 1983 FA Cup final for Brighton, before moving to Anfield. He was part of the Liverpool squad that captured the league, League Cup and European Cup treble in 1984. "We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former player Michael Robinson, aged 61," Liverpool tweeted. "The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time. Rest in peace, Michael." We’re deeply saddened by the passing of former player Michael Robinson, aged 61. The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Michael’s family and friends at this sad time. Rest in peace, Michael. pic.twitter.com/o8Zu3hjICc — Liverpool FC (at ) (@LFC) April 28, 2020 × After Liverpool, he joined Queens Park Rangers, before ending his career with Spanish side Osasuna. After retiring in 1989 he remained in Spain to become one of the country's most distinguished football pundits. According to Spanish daily El Pais, Robinson "revolutionised the way football was analysed". "He was with us on thousands of afternoons of football, recounting incredible anecdotes, and showing us a way of life beyond football," the paper wrote. "Thank you Michael Robinson. We will miss you. You'll never walk alone." Robinson represented the Republic of Ireland 24 times, scoring four goals.

Former Liverpool striker Michael Robinson dies at 61

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world hard, Liverpool were at the top of the Premier League table by a comfortable 25-point margin over defending champions and second-placed Manchester City. The Reds were just two wins away from lifting their first Premier League title since 1990 but the coronavirus pandemic left the sporting calendar shattered and Liverpool’s dream of lifting the coveted trophy in balance.

While speculations were rife that Liverpool might be denied of a league title if the Premier League is not completed, UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has said that he doesn’t “see a way Liverpool could be left without a title” even if the league is not completed.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-considers-coutinhos-transfer-as-difficult-decision-by-liverpool-291156" hreflang="en">Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool</a>

Ceferin said that if by any chance the league is not completed, they will have to find a way to declare final results while declaring a champion while again emphasizing that he “cannot imagine a scenario” where Liverpool would be crowned champions.

He told Slovenian publication EkipaSN: "I can't see a way Liverpool could be left without a title.

"If the Premier League resumes play, Liverpool will almost certainly win the title. Theoretically, it's not all over, but practically Liverpool are on the verge of it.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-considers-coutinhos-transfer-as-difficult-decision-by-liverpool-291156" hreflang="en">Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool</a>

"If by any chance the play will not resume, we still have to find a way to declare final results, to declare champions. And again I cannot see, I cannot imagine a scenario, in which the champions would not be Liverpool. I understand the fans will be disappointed if it happens in an empty stadium or even in the league offices, but I believe, they will get the title one way or another," Ceferin added.

While the Premier League has been suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic, the authorities are determined to complete the season even if it means to alter dates of the transfer window or cut short the season break before the start of 2021-22 season. 
&nbsp;

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world hard, Liverpool were at the top of the Premier League table by a comfortable 25-point margin over defending champions and second-placed Manchester City.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world hard, Liverpool were at the top of the Premier League table by a comfortable 25-point margin over defending champions and second-placed Manchester City. The Reds were just two wins away from lifting their first Premier League title since 1990 but the coronavirus pandemic left the sporting calendar shattered and Liverpool’s dream of lifting the coveted trophy in balance. While speculations were rife that Liverpool might be denied of a league title if the Premier League is not completed, UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has said that he doesn’t “see a way Liverpool could be left without a title” even if the league is not completed. ALSO READ: Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool Ceferin said that if by any chance the league is not completed, they will have to find a way to declare final results while declaring a champion while again emphasizing that he “cannot imagine a scenario” where Liverpool would be crowned champions. He told Slovenian publication EkipaSN: "I can't see a way Liverpool could be left without a title. "If the Premier League resumes play, Liverpool will almost certainly win the title. Theoretically, it's not all over, but practically Liverpool are on the verge of it. ALSO READ: Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool "If by any chance the play will not resume, we still have to find a way to declare final results, to declare champions. And again I cannot see, I cannot imagine a scenario, in which the champions would not be Liverpool. I understand the fans will be disappointed if it happens in an empty stadium or even in the league offices, but I believe, they will get the title one way or another," Ceferin added. While the Premier League has been suspended indefinitely due to COVID-19 pandemic, the authorities are determined to complete the season even if it means to alter dates of the transfer window or cut short the season break before the start of 2021-22 season.

Can't imagine a scenario where Liverpool won't be crowned Premier League champions: UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin

Jurgen Klopp has finally revealed the details of the emotions that the club and he as a manager went through during Philippe Coutinho's exit.&nbsp;

Brazilian playmaker's switch to Camp Nou was considered "difficult" decision by the Reds, as told by Jurgen Klopp.

Liverpool resisted the player's move to Barcelona, in fact, handed him a new contract but Countinho was still allowed to leave.&nbsp;

Philippe Coutinho moved to Barcelona in August 2018 after a $130 million deal was sanctioned.&nbsp;

During a local podcast, Klopp said: "I really respected Phil's switch from the first second.

"Not that I do that all the time but it felt oh wow that could be difficult.

"So it's not about yes we signed a new contract so many weeks before that but it was really clear he would not have asked me for any other club but for this club, there was no chance.

"Then we had to be hard in the summer because we had no other solution. We lost Adam Lallana [to injury] in that time as well, we would have lost two players.

"That's not possible, you cannot solve that on the transfer market.

"He was open to that [staying] and that was really cool. Then you have to be fair in the window and say we can do it, we don't like it but we can do it."

Coutinho has had a nightmare spell with the Catalonia giants, he is currently playing for the German side, Bayern Munich. But he still has not yet found his lost form.&nbsp;

The Brazilian is eyeing a move to Premier League next season but Klopp considers him a boy of past, and Liverpool has seemed to move on.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp has finally revealed the details of the emotions that the club and he as a manager went through during Philippe Coutinho's exit. Brazilian playmaker's switch to Camp Nou was considered "difficult" decision by the Reds, as told by Jurgen Klopp.

Jurgen Klopp has finally revealed the details of the emotions that the club and he as a manager went through during Philippe Coutinho's exit. Brazilian playmaker's switch to Camp Nou was considered "difficult" decision by the Reds, as told by Jurgen Klopp. Liverpool resisted the player's move to Barcelona, in fact, handed him a new contract but Countinho was still allowed to leave. Philippe Coutinho moved to Barcelona in August 2018 after a $130 million deal was sanctioned. During a local podcast, Klopp said: "I really respected Phil's switch from the first second. "Not that I do that all the time but it felt oh wow that could be difficult. "So it's not about yes we signed a new contract so many weeks before that but it was really clear he would not have asked me for any other club but for this club, there was no chance. "Then we had to be hard in the summer because we had no other solution. We lost Adam Lallana [to injury] in that time as well, we would have lost two players. "That's not possible, you cannot solve that on the transfer market. "He was open to that [staying] and that was really cool. Then you have to be fair in the window and say we can do it, we don't like it but we can do it." Coutinho has had a nightmare spell with the Catalonia giants, he is currently playing for the German side, Bayern Munich. But he still has not yet found his lost form. The Brazilian is eyeing a move to Premier League next season but Klopp considers him a boy of past, and Liverpool has seemed to move on.

Jurgen Klopp considers Coutinho's transfer as 'difficult' decision by Liverpool

There are a lot of concerns regarding this year's Premier League, many scenarios are being speculated by the officials and the fans. Will Liverpool be robbed of their league title after 30 years of excruciating wait? What about the players' records?&nbsp;

The Premier League has come to a halt till April 30 due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic. The English League is on the verge of being cancelled after nearing a conclusion of 2019-20 season.&nbsp;

It is very likely that all goals, assists and appearances by players from the 2019-20 season will be cancelled should the current Premier League season be scrapped.

Despite financial losses, the biggest losers will be Liverpool. If the season gets cancelled, Reds will miss out a chance on lifting the league cup despite being 25 points clear from second-placed Manchester City.&nbsp;

Klopp's side has created and broken plenty of records this season. Liverpool equalled Manchester City's record 18-match Premier League winning streak and surpassed City's achievement of 20 consecutive home victories (taking their record to 22 games, following the win against Bournemouth).

Leicester City forward and league's top scorer James Vardy shall see his 19 goals being scrapped.&nbsp;

With the current situation, the pandemic has accelerated in terms of a surge in cases. The league will likely get further extended which means it'll be closer to cancellations.&nbsp;

There are a lot of concerns regarding this year's Premier League, many scenarios are being speculated by the officials and the fans. Will Liverpool be robbed of their league title after 30 years of excruciating wait?

There are a lot of concerns regarding this year's Premier League, many scenarios are being speculated by the officials and the fans. Will Liverpool be robbed of their league title after 30 years of excruciating wait? What about the players' records? The Premier League has come to a halt till April 30 due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic. The English League is on the verge of being cancelled after nearing a conclusion of 2019-20 season. It is very likely that all goals, assists and appearances by players from the 2019-20 season will be cancelled should the current Premier League season be scrapped. Despite financial losses, the biggest losers will be Liverpool. If the season gets cancelled, Reds will miss out a chance on lifting the league cup despite being 25 points clear from second-placed Manchester City. Klopp's side has created and broken plenty of records this season. Liverpool equalled Manchester City's record 18-match Premier League winning streak and surpassed City's achievement of 20 consecutive home victories (taking their record to 22 games, following the win against Bournemouth). Leicester City forward and league's top scorer James Vardy shall see his 19 goals being scrapped. With the current situation, the pandemic has accelerated in terms of a surge in cases. The league will likely get further extended which means it'll be closer to cancellations.

What happens to player and team records if Premier League gets cancelled?

It's not often that Liverpool legends visit the budding football nation India, but as part of the LFC world tour, former Reds Emile Heskey and Jason Mcateer are in New Delhi.

WION caught up with former England international Emile Heskey to speak on the Reds remarkable rise back to the top of English football.

The duo will be participating in a unique fan experience on Saturday which will also feature singer Jamie Webster, the creator of the now-famous fan chant ''Allez Allez Allez.''

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-exclusive-former-liverpool-striker-heskey-on-the-reds-title-charge-284840/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It seemed like the reigning world and European champions would complete the league season unbeaten but a shock 3-0 defeat to relegation-threatened Watford demolished their aura of invincibility.

That was followed by a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea on Tuesday which ended their hopes of a treble.

Three defeats in the last four games is a slight cause for concern for Jurgen Klopp's men to which Heskey replied: "We are not concerned, with the manager we have here Jurgen Klopp, (he) will calm the squad down and reassure of the right path and it is just a minor blip and will resume business".

Premier League leaders Liverpool will have the opportunity to take another huge step towards a first-ever league title in 30 years against Bournemouth tomorrow. Heskey was asked if the Reds will consider this game as crucial to get back to winning ways to which he replied:&nbsp; "Every game is crucial if you are trying to push your players mentally and physically, the numbers they reckon currently are phenomenal." &nbsp;

When asked about the team's play in this year Heskey replied: "It is phenomenal to see them play, their fluency in the forward play and solid defence, I would like to play with this team. I love Firminho's play he makes a lot of things right and John Henderson is playing out of this world at this moment so everything is falling into place."

The Reds who found it difficult to even qualify for Europa are just four wins away from clinching that long-awaited league title. Heskey said: "The German (Klopp) has energized the team and the fans, he is doing a pretty good job."

It's not often that Liverpool legends visit the budding football nation India, but as part of the LFC world tour, former Reds Emile Heskey and Jason Mcateer are in New Delhi.

It's not often that Liverpool legends visit the budding football nation India, but as part of the LFC world tour, former Reds Emile Heskey and Jason Mcateer are in New Delhi. WION caught up with former England international Emile Heskey to speak on the Reds remarkable rise back to the top of English football. The duo will be participating in a unique fan experience on Saturday which will also feature singer Jamie Webster, the creator of the now-famous fan chant ''Allez Allez Allez.'' Watch Video: It seemed like the reigning world and European champions would complete the league season unbeaten but a shock 3-0 defeat to relegation-threatened Watford demolished their aura of invincibility. That was followed by a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea on Tuesday which ended their hopes of a treble. Three defeats in the last four games is a slight cause for concern for Jurgen Klopp's men to which Heskey replied: "We are not concerned, with the manager we have here Jurgen Klopp, (he) will calm the squad down and reassure of the right path and it is just a minor blip and will resume business". Premier League leaders Liverpool will have the opportunity to take another huge step towards a first-ever league title in 30 years against Bournemouth tomorrow. Heskey was asked if the Reds will consider this game as crucial to get back to winning ways to which he replied: "Every game is crucial if you are trying to push your players mentally and physically, the numbers they reckon currently are phenomenal." When asked about the team's play in this year Heskey replied: "It is phenomenal to see them play, their fluency in the forward play and solid defence, I would like to play with this team. I love Firminho's play he makes a lot of things right and John Henderson is playing out of this world at this moment so everything is falling into place." The Reds who found it difficult to even qualify for Europa are just four wins away from clinching that long-awaited league title. Heskey said: "The German (Klopp) has energized the team and the fans, he is doing a pretty good job."

'Klopp has energised everyone': WION meets Liverpool legend Emile Heskey

Former Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge has been handed a four-month ban from all football-related activities across the globe for breaching betting regulations.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dele-alli-charged-after-coronavirus-post-ban-threat-looms-283066">Dele Alli charged after coronavirus post, ban threat looms</a>

This suspension was handed after the Football Association (FA) of England won the appeal against the two-week ban and fine of $95,756 (£75,000) was given to Sturridge last year. The fine has been doubled, it now stands $191,694 (£150,000).&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_kpfRs_3nAhXT4zgGHaWyCukQFjAIegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14p3u1Q-spqXcM9GQAcBVN" dir="ltr" href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-warns-barcelona-after-bartomeu-thanks-uefa-for-ban-281776&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi_kpfRs_3nAhXT4zgGHaWyCukQFjAIegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw14p3u1Q-spqXcM9GQAcBVN" target="_blank">Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for&nbsp;ban</a>

Sturridge's current Turkish club Trabzonspor has mutually terminated the contract with the striker on Monday.&nbsp;

FA released a statement post the verdict: "Daniel Sturridge has been suspended from all football and football-related activity from today until the end of 17 June 2020,"

"About the sanction, the Appeal Board agreed with The FA that the penalty originally imposed on Mr Sturridge was unduly lenient and therefore increased his effective playing ban from two weeks to four months.

"The Appeal Board also doubled the fine to £150,000."

Sturridge had a prolific run as a striker in Liverpool. The 30-year-old began his career at Manchester City, he moved to Chelsea in 2009. In 2013, the young gun moved to Liverpool where he rose to fame.&nbsp;

Daniel Sturridge scored 24 goals in 2013/14, later on, his career derailed due to string of injuries. Sturridge left Liverpool in the summer transfer window last year after running out the contract. He joined Trabzonspor.

Former Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge has been handed a four-month ban from all football-related activities across the globe for breaching betting regulations. Also read: Dele Alli charged after coronavirus post, ban threat looms This suspension was handed after the Football Association (FA) of England won the appeal against the two-week ban and fine of $95,756 (£75,000) was given to Sturridge last year.

Former Liverpool star Daniel Sturridge has been handed a four-month ban from all football-related activities across the globe for breaching betting regulations. Also read: Dele Alli charged after coronavirus post, ban threat looms This suspension was handed after the Football Association (FA) of England won the appeal against the two-week ban and fine of $95,756 (£75,000) was given to Sturridge last year. The fine has been doubled, it now stands $191,694 (£150,000). Also read: Pep Guardiola warns Barcelona after Bartomeu thanks UEFA for ban Sturridge's current Turkish club Trabzonspor has mutually terminated the contract with the striker on Monday. FA released a statement post the verdict: "Daniel Sturridge has been suspended from all football and football-related activity from today until the end of 17 June 2020," "About the sanction, the Appeal Board agreed with The FA that the penalty originally imposed on Mr Sturridge was unduly lenient and therefore increased his effective playing ban from two weeks to four months. "The Appeal Board also doubled the fine to £150,000." Sturridge had a prolific run as a striker in Liverpool. The 30-year-old began his career at Manchester City, he moved to Chelsea in 2009. In 2013, the young gun moved to Liverpool where he rose to fame. Daniel Sturridge scored 24 goals in 2013/14, later on, his career derailed due to string of injuries. Sturridge left Liverpool in the summer transfer window last year after running out the contract. He joined Trabzonspor.

Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge banned for breaching betting regulations

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp warned his side the Premier League title is not won yet after a 44-game run without defeat in the league came to a crashing end as Watford beat the European champions 3-0 on Saturday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp warned his side the Premier League title is not won yet after a 44-game run without defeat in the league came to a crashing end as Watford beat the European champions 3-0 on Saturday. Klopp's men still enjoy a 22-point lead at the top of the table, but their sluggish return from a two-week winter break earlier this month was finally punished. Ismaila Sarr's quickfire double and Troy Deeney's strike 18 minutes from time ended Liverpool's hopes of romping to a first league title in 30 years with an unbeaten season. "What the boys did so far is exceptional but it is not over," said Klopp. "We did not expect the number of games we won. It was never easy and it will never be easy, so now let's carry on." After single-goal victories over struggling Norwich and West Ham either side of a Champions League defeat at Atletico Madrid, Liverpool were comprehensively beaten at Vicarage Road. A 55-point gap separated the sides before kick-off, but the out-of-sorts visitors failed to muster even a single effort on goal in the first 45 minutes. "You break records because you are 100 percent focused on each step you have to do," added Klopp. "For that you have to perform. Tonight we were not good enough." Watford's bright start threatened to be blown off course when Gerard Deulofeu had to stretchered off with a nasty looking knee injury that seems certain to end his season. Andy Robertson's driven effort finally forced Ben Foster into a save early in the second half, but just as Liverpool were beginning to build up a head of steam, they were stung by two quick strikes by Sarr.

Liverpool's unbeaten Premier League run ended by Watford

Liverpool's 3-2 win over West Ham has earned them a record-equalling 18th consecutive Premier League match win this season on Monday.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-simeones-atletico-stun-mighty-liverpool-in-1st-leg-of-round-of-16-281473">Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16</a>

The last time Jurgen Klopp's side dropped points was back in October, where they drew their Manchester United fixture. Liverpool was set to lose points in this fixture but Sadio Mane's 81st-minute goal sealed a victory for the league toppers at Anfield.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-march-on-with-4-0-rout-of-southampton-278086">Liverpool march on with 4-0 rout of Southampton</a>

Liverpool's Georginio Wijnaldum struck first at 9th minute but soon West Ham's Issa Diop equalised in the 12th minute. The half-time whistle blew with scores tied.&nbsp;

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In the second half, Pablo Fornals' 54th-minute goal gave West Ham a stunning lead at Anfield. Mohammed Salah equalised the scoreline in the 68th minute. The winning goal was struck by Sadio Mane in 81st minute.&nbsp;

Jurgen Klopp was pleased by his team's performance, he said: "I never thought it would be broken or equalled. We did it and I cannot believe it happened to be honest," Klopp said of the record.

"Whatever will happen this season is an effort of all of us. So far, so good."

Their 21st successive league victory at Anfield also equalled their own English top-flight record for consecutive home wins, set by Bill Shankly's team between January and December 1972.&nbsp;

Liverpool needs four victories from their final 11 games to guarantee a first English title since 1990.

They are unbeaten in their last 44 league matches, just five short of Arsenal's all-time English record of 49.

Liverpool's 3-2 win over West Ham has earned them a record-equalling 18th consecutive Premier League match win this season on Monday. Also read: Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16 The last time Jurgen Klopp's side dropped points was back in October, where they drew their Manchester United fixture.

Liverpool's 3-2 win over West Ham has earned them a record-equalling 18th consecutive Premier League match win this season on Monday. Also read: Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16 The last time Jurgen Klopp's side dropped points was back in October, where they drew their Manchester United fixture. Liverpool was set to lose points in this fixture but Sadio Mane's 81st-minute goal sealed a victory for the league toppers at Anfield. Also read: Liverpool march on with 4-0 rout of Southampton Liverpool's Georginio Wijnaldum struck first at 9th minute but soon West Ham's Issa Diop equalised in the 12th minute. The half-time whistle blew with scores tied. One step closer for @LFC pic.twitter.com/zKrJl3UIPQ — Premier League (@premierleague) February 24, 2020 × In the second half, Pablo Fornals' 54th-minute goal gave West Ham a stunning lead at Anfield. Mohammed Salah equalised the scoreline in the 68th minute. The winning goal was struck by Sadio Mane in 81st minute. Jurgen Klopp was pleased by his team's performance, he said: "I never thought it would be broken or equalled. We did it and I cannot believe it happened to be honest," Klopp said of the record. "Whatever will happen this season is an effort of all of us. So far, so good." Their 21st successive league victory at Anfield also equalled their own English top-flight record for consecutive home wins, set by Bill Shankly's team between January and December 1972. Liverpool needs four victories from their final 11 games to guarantee a first English title since 1990. They are unbeaten in their last 44 league matches, just five short of Arsenal's all-time English record of 49.

'We did it', says Jurgen Klopp after record-equalling 18th consecutive win

Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid outclass the defending European Champions Liverpool in the first leg of the round of 16 in Champions League by beating them 1-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano, Madrid on Tuesday.

Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid outclass the defending European Champions Liverpool in the first leg of the round of 16 in Champions League by beating them 1-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano, Madrid on Tuesday. Also read: Champions League: Teen sensation Haaland shines as Neymar's PSG fumbles Atletico's Saul Niguez stunned the English club after scoring in the first four minutes of the game. Also read: Klopp shows sympathy for Guardiola after Manchester City European ban Liverpool strikers had a disappointing game after they took 8 shots in total and none of them was on target. Despite having 73 per cent possession, Liverpool was suffocated by Atletico's defence. No. Words. needed. Thank you, Atleti Family 👏 ⚽ #AtletiLFC ⭐ #UCL 🔴⚪ #AúpaAtleti pic.twitter.com/bnR7xM4MSp — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 18, 2020 × Atletico, on the other hand, had 7 shots (2 on target). Alvaro Morata missed a big chance to double their lead as he slipped at the crucial moment. Diego Simeone was pleased with the win, he said: "Tonight is one of those nights you don't forget...we haven't gone through but we have beaten the best team in the world. Jurgen Klopp has not lost all hope, he feels that the reverse fixture will be a difficult game but not an impossible one, he said: "We are not 5-0 down," said Jurgen Klopp. "We don't think it will be easy but as long as we can get 11 players in Liverpool shirts we will give everything we have. And for all the Liverpool fans that can get a ticket -- welcome to Anfield." [🔝 ] @renan_lodi named #UCLMOTM! 🙌 What a game, Renan! 🙌 ⭐ #UCL ⚽ #AtletiLFC 🔴⚪ #AúpaAtleti pic.twitter.com/mmb2tIEleW — Atlético de Madrid (@atletienglish) February 18, 2020 × Sadio Mane was replaced after he got a yellow card, looks like Klopp could not risk losing his star forward for the next crucial fixture. Liverpool will be eyeing an overturn in the reverse fixture at Anfield. (With inputs from AFP)

Champions League: Simeone's Atletico stun mighty Liverpool in 1st leg of round of 16

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../guardiola-says-league-form-sets-standard-and- will-not-prioritise-cups-275700">Pep Guardiola</a> took a&nbsp;dig at former Premier League's chief executive Richard Scudamore. Scudamore last year had expressed his concerns regarding Blues' win in the previous year's Premier League with five games to spare.&nbsp;

Also Read-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-tottenham-weather-manchester-city-storm-to-snatch-win-278220">Premier League: Tottenham weather Manchester City storm to snatch win</a>

“It doesn't take away from City's excellence, but we want the season to go to the last, I'd like multiple trophies needed in various locations on the last day because we don't know how it will end,” Richard had said angering members in the Manchester City management.&nbsp;

Liverpool is 22 points clear of the second positioned Man City with just 13 matches to go, to which Pep said: “The last two seasons, it was an owner from the Premier League that says that can’t happen again, City winning the titles that way with 100 points is not good for the Premier League, now it’s Liverpool, the owner has to be concerned again."&nbsp;

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Richard Scudamore is no more a part of the Premier League.&nbsp;

Pep Guardiola has accepted that it is Liverpool's year to win the Premier League, he said: "They are far away so they are unstoppable. They have a lot of points, we have dropped points quite similar to today."

He also feels that his stay with Manchester City will be a failure until his side manages to win the Champions League.&nbsp;

"Our targets are to win the remaining competitions and qualify for the Champions League next season," he added. &nbsp;

Pep Guardiola took a dig at former Premier League's chief executive Richard Scudamore. Scudamore last year had expressed his concerns regarding Blues' win in the previous year's Premier League with five games to spare.

Pep Guardiola took a dig at former Premier League's chief executive Richard Scudamore. Scudamore last year had expressed his concerns regarding Blues' win in the previous year's Premier League with five games to spare. Also Read- Premier League: Tottenham weather Manchester City storm to snatch win “It doesn't take away from City's excellence, but we want the season to go to the last, I'd like multiple trophies needed in various locations on the last day because we don't know how it will end,” Richard had said angering members in the Manchester City management. Liverpool is 22 points clear of the second positioned Man City with just 13 matches to go, to which Pep said: “The last two seasons, it was an owner from the Premier League that says that can’t happen again, City winning the titles that way with 100 points is not good for the Premier League, now it’s Liverpool, the owner has to be concerned again." Like the look of the #PL table? pic.twitter.com/xDL3EGLHzd — Premier League (@premierleague) February 2, 2020 × Richard Scudamore is no more a part of the Premier League. Pep Guardiola has accepted that it is Liverpool's year to win the Premier League, he said: "They are far away so they are unstoppable. They have a lot of points, we have dropped points quite similar to today." He also feels that his stay with Manchester City will be a failure until his side manages to win the Champions League. "Our targets are to win the remaining competitions and qualify for the Champions League next season," he added.

Pep Guardiola takes a dig at ex-Premier League boss Scudamore

Premier League leaders Liverpool opened up a 22-point gap at the top of the table with second-half goals from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jordan Henderson and a Mohamed Salah brace giving them a 4-0 home win over Southampton on Saturday.

Premier League leaders Liverpool opened up a 22-point gap at the top of the table with second-half goals from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jordan Henderson and a Mohamed Salah brace giving them a 4-0 home win over Southampton on Saturday. It was Liverpool's 20th successive home win dating back to last season, matching Manchester City's record set between March 2011 and March 2012. It left them miles clear of second-placed champions City, who visit Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Missing the injured Sadio Mane, Liverpool looked disjointed in the first half with goalkeeper Allisson Becker twice denying Danny Ings after Southampton's Alex McCarthy made an excellent double save at the other end. Oxlade-Chamberlain, who also came close in the first half with a deflected shot, fired the home side ahead in the 47th minute when he cut inside and left McCarthy wrong-footed with a fine low drive from 18 metres. Henderson doubled the lead on the hour when he drove the ball into the roof of the net from 10 metres out thanks to some good work by Roberto Firmino, who broke down the left flank and squared the ball back to his skipper. Salah put the icing on the cake with two late goals - a dinked 72nd-minute finish as Henderson turned provider, followed by a scrambled stoppage time effort after he was released by Firmino.

Liverpool march on with 4-0 rout of Southampton

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../liverpool-go-16-points-clear-with-2-0-win-over -man-united-275361">Liverpool</a>&nbsp;manager Jurgen Klopp hailed another moment of magic from Roberto Firmino as the Brazilian's late winner opened up a 16-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 victory at Wolves on Thursday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/guardiola-says-league-form-sets-standard-and-will-not-prioritise-cups-275700">Guardiola says league form sets standard and will not prioritise cups</a>

The European champions' now 14-game winning streak in the league seemed set to end as Raul Jimenez cancelled out Jordan Henderson's early opener.

Liverpool&nbsp;were even grateful to goalkeeper Alisson Becker for not falling behind in the second half.

However, like crucial victories against Leicester, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace earlier in the campaign,&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;left it late to snatch another vital three points in their quest to end a 30-year wait to win the title as Firmino smashed home six minutes from time.

"You just have to find a way to win and have someone who makes the perfect decision and that was Bobby again," said Klopp.

"A worldie I would say from Bobby, a super goal."

Liverpool, who now have 22 wins in 23 league games this season, also have a game in hand over second-placed Manchester City to come.

However, victory could still come at a cost as Mane hobbled off with a hamstring injury in the first half.

"We don't know exactly (the severity of the injury). He felt something in the hamstring," added Klopp, whose side are also still in the hunt for the FA Cup and Champions League.

Defeat leaves Wolves still six points off the top four in seventh, but Nuno Espirito Santo's side showed why they are on form the most likely challengers to fourth-placed Chelsea for a place in next season's Champions League.

"It was a fantastic game of football," said Nuno. "We have to keep going and keep getting stronger."

Nuno's one regret from his side's display was the manner of the opening goal.

Set-pieces have been one of the keys to&nbsp;Liverpool's success and a well-worked corner got the visitors off to a flying start as Henderson headed home.

Matt Doherty should have levelled shortly afterwards before&nbsp;Liverpool's threat on the counter-attack was curtailed when Mane pulled up.

The Senegalese's absence for a few weeks is unlikely to sway the momentum of the title race, but he could now be a doubt for the first leg of&nbsp;Liverpool's Champions League last 16 tie at Atletico Madrid next month.

Jimenez and Adama Traore were left on the bench when the sides met in late December just two days after they had scored in a thrilling 3-2 win over Manchester City and Wolves' two most dangerous attacking weapons made a huge difference.

"Traore is pretty much unplayable," added Klopp.&nbsp;

"Not only on the wing any more, but he keeps the ball, holds the ball and sets up goals."

The Spaniard's pace was too much for a&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;defence that had kept seven consecutive Premier League clean sheets to handle six minutes after the break.

Traore's run down the right pulled Van Dijk out of the centre of the defence and his pinpoint cross found Jimenez to bullet home his 20th goal of the season.

That was the first goal Alisson had conceded in the league for two months and the Brazilian had to be at his best to then turn a Traore drive to safety and stand up bravely to block from Jimenez.

Firmino looked to have missed the chance to claim all three points when he fired into Patricio's legs with just the Portuguese number one to beat.

But he quickly made amends with a thumping finish from Henderson's pass.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hailed another moment of magic from Roberto Firmino as the Brazilian's late winner opened up a 16-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 victory at Wolves on Thursday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hailed another moment of magic from Roberto Firmino as the Brazilian's late winner opened up a 16-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 victory at Wolves on Thursday. Also read: Guardiola says league form sets standard and will not prioritise cups The European champions' now 14-game winning streak in the league seemed set to end as Raul Jimenez cancelled out Jordan Henderson's early opener. Liverpool were even grateful to goalkeeper Alisson Becker for not falling behind in the second half. However, like crucial victories against Leicester, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace earlier in the campaign, Liverpool left it late to snatch another vital three points in their quest to end a 30-year wait to win the title as Firmino smashed home six minutes from time. "You just have to find a way to win and have someone who makes the perfect decision and that was Bobby again," said Klopp. "A worldie I would say from Bobby, a super goal." Liverpool, who now have 22 wins in 23 league games this season, also have a game in hand over second-placed Manchester City to come. However, victory could still come at a cost as Mane hobbled off with a hamstring injury in the first half. "We don't know exactly (the severity of the injury). He felt something in the hamstring," added Klopp, whose side are also still in the hunt for the FA Cup and Champions League. Defeat leaves Wolves still six points off the top four in seventh, but Nuno Espirito Santo's side showed why they are on form the most likely challengers to fourth-placed Chelsea for a place in next season's Champions League. "It was a fantastic game of football," said Nuno. "We have to keep going and keep getting stronger." Nuno's one regret from his side's display was the manner of the opening goal. Set-pieces have been one of the keys to Liverpool's success and a well-worked corner got the visitors off to a flying start as Henderson headed home. Matt Doherty should have levelled shortly afterwards before Liverpool's threat on the counter-attack was curtailed when Mane pulled up. The Senegalese's absence for a few weeks is unlikely to sway the momentum of the title race, but he could now be a doubt for the first leg of Liverpool's Champions League last 16 tie at Atletico Madrid next month. Jimenez and Adama Traore were left on the bench when the sides met in late December just two days after they had scored in a thrilling 3-2 win over Manchester City and Wolves' two most dangerous attacking weapons made a huge difference. "Traore is pretty much unplayable," added Klopp. "Not only on the wing any more, but he keeps the ball, holds the ball and sets up goals." The Spaniard's pace was too much for a Liverpool defence that had kept seven consecutive Premier League clean sheets to handle six minutes after the break. Traore's run down the right pulled Van Dijk out of the centre of the defence and his pinpoint cross found Jimenez to bullet home his 20th goal of the season. That was the first goal Alisson had conceded in the league for two months and the Brazilian had to be at his best to then turn a Traore drive to safety and stand up bravely to block from Jimenez. Firmino looked to have missed the chance to claim all three points when he fired into Patricio's legs with just the Portuguese number one to beat. But he quickly made amends with a thumping finish from Henderson's pass.

Firmino 'worldie' secures another late Liverpool win at Wolves

Liverpool came through a high-octane tussle with old rivals Manchester United to win 2-0 at Anfield and move 16 points clear at the top of the table on Sunday, sparking a chorus of "we are going to win the league" from their now expectant fans.

Liverpool came through a high-octane tussle with old rivals Manchester United to win 2-0 at Anfield and move 16 points clear at the top of the table on Sunday, sparking a chorus of "we are going to win the league" from their now expectant fans. Juergen Klopp's side, chasing their maiden title in the Premier League era and first in the top flight in 30 years, took a 14th-minute lead from a Virgil van Dijk header but had to wait until stoppage time to put the game to bed through Mohamed Salah. With a game in hand on second-placed Manchester City, Liverpool's grip on the title race tightened and while Klopp was not about to echo the euphoric sentiments of the club's jubilant fans, he was upbeat about his team's display. "It's a big relief, I was really happy with 85-90% of the game, we were brilliant. We dominated the game, especially in the first half. The energy they put on the pitch was incredible," said the German, whose side have dropped just two points in 22 games. For United, who battled hard but were outclassed in all departments, it was another reminder of just how much work is ahead of them if they are to get back to being in contention for titles. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer suffered another blow to his hopes of qualifying for the Champions League with the news that his top scorer Marcus Rashford was not only out for the trip to Anfield but could face several weeks on the sidelines with a back injury. United are in fifth place in the league, five points behind fourth-placed Chelsea, and while no-one could question the commitment of Solskjaer's players it is clear he needs some immediate transfer reinforcements. "The players gave us everything. Today we hung on a bit at the start of the second half, but the last 25-30 minutes we pressed them and pushed them back. I'm disappointed with conceding from a corner and with the last kick - but very many positives," he said. Firm header After a promising start from the visitors, Van Dijk put Liverpool ahead with a firm header after he was poorly marked by United, who allowed him to rise and nod in a Trent Alexander-Arnold corner. Roberto Firmino thought he had scored a second but a VAR review ruled that Van Dijk had fouled United keeper David de Gea before the ball fell to the Brazilian. Liverpool had the ball in the net again when Georginio Wijnaldum slotted home after a clever defence-splitting pass from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain but the Dutchman was ruled narrowly offside. United's attacking forages were rare but they caused some anxiety for Klopp when Andreas Pereira slid in but could not make contact with a low ball across the face of the goal from Aaron Wan Bissaka. Yet after the break, Liverpool looked determined to put the outcome beyond doubt. Salah missed a glorious chance from close range just after the interval during an intense period of pressure from the home side, in which Jordan Henderson also hit the post. United survived that blitz and clawed their way back into the game and could even have snatched an equaliser but Anthony Martial blasted high and wide in the 59th minute. Solskjaer's side applied some late pressure but were caught on the counter-attack in the final moments when, with all United players forward, Liverpool keeper Alisson Becker launched a long ball for Salah who raced clear before slotting home and settling Anfield's nerves. "It's special. We're enjoying our football. You have to stay hungry and keep wanting more," said Henderson, who looks well set to be raising another piece of silverware at the end of this campaign after lifting the Champions League trophy last season.

Premier League: Liverpool go 16 points clear with 2-0 win over Manchester United

Crystal Palace grabbed a last-minute equaliser, through a Fernandinho own goal, to earn a 2-2 draw at Manchester City in the&nbsp;Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;on Saturday after two goals from Sergio Aguero looked to have given the champions victory.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-thrash-villa-with-sergio-agueros-record-breaking-hat-trick-273970">Manchester City thrash Villa with Sergio Aguero's record-breaking hat-trick</a>

The result leaves City 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have two games in hand and host Manchester United on Sunday.

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18/19: 
 
Manchester United 0-0 Palace 
Manchester City 2-3 Palace 
 
19/20: 
 
Manchester United 1-2 Palace 
Manchester City 2-2 Palace 
 
Manchester is red AND blue.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CPFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CPFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/d88PNdax5M">pic.twitter.com/d88PNdax5M</a>
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Palace, who won this fixture last season, took the lead through new signing Cenk Tosun in the 39th minute, the Turkish forward, on loan from Everton, heading home at the back post after Gary Cahill had nodded a corner across the area.

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All that late goal drama... 
 
🔵 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MCICRY?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MCICRY</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ManCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ManCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/FFAHctczdY">pic.twitter.com/FFAHctczdY</a>
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City dominated but wasted the chances that came their way, Bernardo Silva blasting over from inside the box and, after the interval, Raheem Sterling shooting wide after breaking into the area.

Pep Guardiola thought his side had a penalty in the 71st minute when the referee ruled Jairo Riedewald had handled a Joao Cancelo cross, but the VAR review overturned the decision after it showed the ball had struck his leg before bouncing against his arm.

City finally got on level terms in the 82nd minute when Aguero slid in at the back post to convert a Gabriel Jesus ball for his 250th goal for the club in all competitions.

Minutes later the Argentine made it 2-1 with a fine, angled header from a Benjamin Mendy cross from the left.

But Palace grabbed a point after Wilfried Zaha powered past John Stones and his cross deflected in off Fernandinho and beat City goalkeeper Ederson.

It was City's third draw of the season and, combined with their five defeats, their bid for a third straight title now seems to be mostly a case of hoping for a miracle.

"It was a tight game and unfortunately we could not win it," said Guardiola.

"I told them (at half-time) to keep going. Put more balls into the box and try to control Zaha on the counter-attack. It's difficult to analyse when they shoot one corner, have no more chances, and we did many times and unfortunately could not win. We take it one game at a time," said the Spaniard.

The point moves Palace up to ninth place on 30 points and Tosun, who had struggled to make an impact at Everton, was delighted with his debut goal.

"To score was a great feeling as a striker needs confidence, and confidence comes with scoring goals," he said.

"We played a solid game, knew City would have more possession, but we scored a good two goals and I'm just glad I got one of them.

"It's a great feeling to score a goal in my first game but more than the goal was the point - that’s what mattered today."

Crystal Palace grabbed a last-minute equaliser, through a Fernandinho own goal, to earn a 2-2 draw at Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday after two goals from Sergio Aguero looked to have given the champions victory.

Crystal Palace grabbed a last-minute equaliser, through a Fernandinho own goal, to earn a 2-2 draw at Manchester City in the Premier League on Saturday after two goals from Sergio Aguero looked to have given the champions victory. Also read: Manchester City thrash Villa with Sergio Aguero's record-breaking hat-trick The result leaves City 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have two games in hand and host Manchester United on Sunday. 18/19: Manchester United 0-0 Palace Manchester City 2-3 Palace 19/20: Manchester United 1-2 Palace Manchester City 2-2 Palace Manchester is red AND blue.#CPFC pic.twitter.com/d88PNdax5M — Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) January 18, 2020 × Palace, who won this fixture last season, took the lead through new signing Cenk Tosun in the 39th minute, the Turkish forward, on loan from Everton, heading home at the back post after Gary Cahill had nodded a corner across the area. All that late goal drama... 🔵 #MCICRY #ManCity pic.twitter.com/FFAHctczdY — Manchester City (@ManCity) January 18, 2020 × City dominated but wasted the chances that came their way, Bernardo Silva blasting over from inside the box and, after the interval, Raheem Sterling shooting wide after breaking into the area. Pep Guardiola thought his side had a penalty in the 71st minute when the referee ruled Jairo Riedewald had handled a Joao Cancelo cross, but the VAR review overturned the decision after it showed the ball had struck his leg before bouncing against his arm. City finally got on level terms in the 82nd minute when Aguero slid in at the back post to convert a Gabriel Jesus ball for his 250th goal for the club in all competitions. Minutes later the Argentine made it 2-1 with a fine, angled header from a Benjamin Mendy cross from the left. But Palace grabbed a point after Wilfried Zaha powered past John Stones and his cross deflected in off Fernandinho and beat City goalkeeper Ederson. It was City's third draw of the season and, combined with their five defeats, their bid for a third straight title now seems to be mostly a case of hoping for a miracle. "It was a tight game and unfortunately we could not win it," said Guardiola. "I told them (at half-time) to keep going. Put more balls into the box and try to control Zaha on the counter-attack. It's difficult to analyse when they shoot one corner, have no more chances, and we did many times and unfortunately could not win. We take it one game at a time," said the Spaniard. The point moves Palace up to ninth place on 30 points and Tosun, who had struggled to make an impact at Everton, was delighted with his debut goal. "To score was a great feeling as a striker needs confidence, and confidence comes with scoring goals," he said. "We played a solid game, knew City would have more possession, but we scored a good two goals and I'm just glad I got one of them. "It's a great feeling to score a goal in my first game but more than the goal was the point - that’s what mattered today."

Premier League: City frustrated after Crystal Palace's last minute equalizer extends gap with Liverpool

The list of nominees of the Sportsman of the Year is out. Lewis Hamilton, Eliud Kipchoge, Marc Marquez, Lionel Messi, Rafael Nadal, and Tiger woods are in the contentions.

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It's time to announce the nominees for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Laureus20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Laureus20</a> World Sports Awards 🙌 
 
Introducing the six contenders for Sportsman of the Year... 
 
May the best man win 👊 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportUnitesUs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportUnitesUs</a> <a href="https://t.co/2X8C7yNFM9">pic.twitter.com/2X8C7yNFM9</a>
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Each individual has had the successful year of 2019, they won huge in their respective sports.

Novak Djokovic won the 'Sportsman of the Year' award last year.&nbsp;

Lewis Hamilton is the current Formula 1 Champion, the Britisher has won a total of six F1 championships. His team Mercedes is nominated for the Team of the Year category.&nbsp;

Marc Marquez has won MotoGP in 2019, making it the sixth time for Spaniard.&nbsp;

Eliud Kipchoge, an athlete was first to run a marathon in under two hours.

Tiger Woods made a major comeback after he won the Masters Tournament after 14 years.&nbsp;

Rafael Nadal, is currently the World number 1 in tennis rankings, with the season's record of 3-1, Spaniard managed to earn a spot in the list.

Lionel Messi won his sixth Ballon D'or in December last year after an amazing goal-scoring run for his club Barcelona. The Argentine is one of the favourites to win this award.

F1 team Mercedes, Liverpool Football Club, South Africa’s rugby team, Spain’s men’s basketball team, basketball’s Toronto Raptors, and the United States Women’s Football Team are all competing for the Team of the Year award.&nbsp;

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What a year 2019 was for team sports ⚽️🏎🏉🏀 
 
Announcing the following six nominees who have been recognised for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Laureus20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Laureus20</a> Team of the Year category 👀 
 
See you in Berlin! 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportUnitesUs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportUnitesUs</a> <a href="https://t.co/JmHhRJBnjV">pic.twitter.com/JmHhRJBnjV</a>
— Laureus (@LaureusSport) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaureusSport/status/1217432413619531777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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In the 'World Sportswoman of the Year' category, Naomi Osaka, the first Asian tennis player to get to number 1 in world rankings is competing against Golden Ball and Golden boot winner Megan Rapinoe gymnastic great Simone Biles, American sprinters Allyson Felix and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce along with US skiing legend Mikaela.

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🏆 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Laureus20?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Laureus20</a> Sportswoman of the Year 🏆 
 
These six ladies all had an incredible 2019 and continue to inspire people around the world... 
 
Good luck to them all 🙌 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SportUnitesUs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SportUnitesUs</a> <a href="https://t.co/HugemrYFhz">pic.twitter.com/HugemrYFhz</a>
— Laureus (@LaureusSport) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaureusSport/status/1217432401732755456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The awards ceremony is set to be held in Berlin on February 17. 
&nbsp;

The list of nominees of the Sportsman of the Year is out. Lewis Hamilton, Eliud Kipchoge, Marc Marquez, Lionel Messi, Rafael Nadal, and Tiger woods are in the contentions.

The list of nominees of the Sportsman of the Year is out. Lewis Hamilton, Eliud Kipchoge, Marc Marquez, Lionel Messi, Rafael Nadal, and Tiger woods are in the contentions. It's time to announce the nominees for the #Laureus20 World Sports Awards 🙌 Introducing the six contenders for Sportsman of the Year... May the best man win 👊 #SportUnitesUs pic.twitter.com/2X8C7yNFM9 — Laureus (@LaureusSport) January 15, 2020 × Each individual has had the successful year of 2019, they won huge in their respective sports. Novak Djokovic won the 'Sportsman of the Year' award last year. Lewis Hamilton is the current Formula 1 Champion, the Britisher has won a total of six F1 championships. His team Mercedes is nominated for the Team of the Year category. Marc Marquez has won MotoGP in 2019, making it the sixth time for Spaniard. Eliud Kipchoge, an athlete was first to run a marathon in under two hours. Tiger Woods made a major comeback after he won the Masters Tournament after 14 years. Rafael Nadal, is currently the World number 1 in tennis rankings, with the season's record of 3-1, Spaniard managed to earn a spot in the list. Lionel Messi won his sixth Ballon D'or in December last year after an amazing goal-scoring run for his club Barcelona. The Argentine is one of the favourites to win this award. F1 team Mercedes, Liverpool Football Club, South Africa’s rugby team, Spain’s men’s basketball team, basketball’s Toronto Raptors, and the United States Women’s Football Team are all competing for the Team of the Year award. What a year 2019 was for team sports ⚽️🏎🏉🏀 Announcing the following six nominees who have been recognised for the #Laureus20 Team of the Year category 👀 See you in Berlin! #SportUnitesUs pic.twitter.com/JmHhRJBnjV — Laureus (@LaureusSport) January 15, 2020 × In the 'World Sportswoman of the Year' category, Naomi Osaka, the first Asian tennis player to get to number 1 in world rankings is competing against Golden Ball and Golden boot winner Megan Rapinoe gymnastic great Simone Biles, American sprinters Allyson Felix and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce along with US skiing legend Mikaela. 🏆 #Laureus20 Sportswoman of the Year 🏆 These six ladies all had an incredible 2019 and continue to inspire people around the world... Good luck to them all 🙌 #SportUnitesUs pic.twitter.com/HugemrYFhz — Laureus (@LaureusSport) January 15, 2020 × The awards ceremony is set to be held in Berlin on February 17.

Laureus Awards 2020: Nominees for best Sportsperson announced

Liverpool&nbsp;stretched their lead at the top of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-tottenhams-kane-ruled-out-for-three-months-with-hamstring-injury-273331">Premier League</a> to 16 points and set a record in the process as Roberto Firmino's first-half goal secured a battling 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

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BIG WIN! ✊<a href="https://t.co/JbUsCmD0Ar">https://t.co/JbUsCmD0Ar</a>
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/LFC/status/1216077981980024839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Juergen Klopp's unbeaten side were not at their best and had to withstand a Spurs fightback after the break but hung on for a 20th win out of 21 league games this season to move further ahead of second-placed Leicester City with a game in hand.

Liverpool's total of 61 points is the most after 21 games of a Premier League season, beating <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/striker-less-aston-villa-hold-on-for-draw-at-leicester-273173">Manchester City's</a> 59 from two seasons ago, and has never been surpassed in the Spanish, Italian, German or French leagues at the same stage.

<img alt="Tottenham's Giovani Lo Celso misses a chance to score " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e9bbcf61-1304-4c8d-9e31-4ad7b618ce73" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2832%29_1.jpg" /> 
[ Tottenham's Giovani Lo Celso misses a chance to score&nbsp;(Courtesy: Reuters) ]

Firmino's 37th-minute effort proved enough for&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;to march on towards a first English title since 1989-90, but Tottenham substitute <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-spurs-close-in-on-last-16-berth-with-4-0-rout-of-red-star-260412">Giovani Lo Celso</a> wasted a glorious chance to earn the hosts a draw with a glaring late miss.

Liverpool's fans stood to acclaim their side at the end and Spurs manager Jose Mourinho, who has now won only two of 11 games against&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopps-kids-knock-everton-out-of-fa-cup-272440">Juergen Klopp</a>, shook hands with every opposition player at the final whistle.

"I'm over the moon about the result, but we have to talk about the performance," a rather subdued Klopp said later.

"One team deserved to win and that was us. To win at Tottenham is pretty special. That the game wasn't decided after 50-60 minutes was our fault. We should have scored more goals.

"We were on the ground towards the end. A couple of our players were slightly exhausted, but we fought through that," he added after his side stretched their lead over Leicester, who had earlier lost 2-1 at home to Southampton.

While Klopp's unstoppable side are now unbeaten in a club record 38 league games, Tottenham, who in June faced&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;in the Champions League final in Madrid, are drifting in eighth place, nine points behind fourth-placed Chelsea.

Liverpool&nbsp;dominated the first half and it needed a superb block by Tottenham's 20-year-old defender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-no-quick-fixes-for-spurs-in-transfer-window-272204">Japhet Tanganga</a>, handed his first league start, to deny Firmino with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain hitting the rebound against the post.

<img alt="Liverpool's Jordan Henderson in action with Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-min" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c93c50c7-efce-46fe-ac8f-9eb8e008d32a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2833%29.jpg" /> 
[ Liverpool's Jordan Henderson in action with Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-min (Courtesy: Reuters)&nbsp;]

Liverpool&nbsp;defender Virgil van Dijk then looked certain to head in Jordan Henderson's dinked cross but keeper Paulo Gazzaniga made a superb reflex save.

With Tottenham sitting deeper and deeper the pressure finally told as they failed to clear the ball and Mohamed Salah's pass evaded Tanganga for Brazilian Firmino to fire past the stranded Gazzaniga.

Spurs, without their injured talisman <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopps-kids-knock-everton-out-of-fa-cup-272440">Harry Kane</a>, were far more lively after the break as&nbsp;Liverpool's pace slowed.

Son Heung-min wasted a great chance to equalise, curling the ball over the bar after&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;were caught in possession, and then substitute Giovani Lo Celso somehow missed the target with the goal gaping after being picked out by Serge Aurier.

Erik Lamela also came off the bench and tested&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;keeper Alisson but the Reds showed incredible defensive discipline to record a sixth successive clean sheet.

Liverpool stretched their lead at the top of the Premier League to 16 points and set a record in the process as Roberto Firmino's first-half goal secured a battling 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

Liverpool stretched their lead at the top of the Premier League to 16 points and set a record in the process as Roberto Firmino's first-half goal secured a battling 1-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. BIG WIN! ✊https://t.co/JbUsCmD0Ar — Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 11, 2020 × Juergen Klopp's unbeaten side were not at their best and had to withstand a Spurs fightback after the break but hung on for a 20th win out of 21 league games this season to move further ahead of second-placed Leicester City with a game in hand. Liverpool's total of 61 points is the most after 21 games of a Premier League season, beating Manchester City's 59 from two seasons ago, and has never been surpassed in the Spanish, Italian, German or French leagues at the same stage. [ Tottenham's Giovani Lo Celso misses a chance to score (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Firmino's 37th-minute effort proved enough for Liverpool to march on towards a first English title since 1989-90, but Tottenham substitute Giovani Lo Celso wasted a glorious chance to earn the hosts a draw with a glaring late miss. Liverpool's fans stood to acclaim their side at the end and Spurs manager Jose Mourinho, who has now won only two of 11 games against Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp, shook hands with every opposition player at the final whistle. "I'm over the moon about the result, but we have to talk about the performance," a rather subdued Klopp said later. "One team deserved to win and that was us. To win at Tottenham is pretty special. That the game wasn't decided after 50-60 minutes was our fault. We should have scored more goals. "We were on the ground towards the end. A couple of our players were slightly exhausted, but we fought through that," he added after his side stretched their lead over Leicester, who had earlier lost 2-1 at home to Southampton. While Klopp's unstoppable side are now unbeaten in a club record 38 league games, Tottenham, who in June faced Liverpool in the Champions League final in Madrid, are drifting in eighth place, nine points behind fourth-placed Chelsea. Liverpool dominated the first half and it needed a superb block by Tottenham's 20-year-old defender Japhet Tanganga, handed his first league start, to deny Firmino with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain hitting the rebound against the post. [ Liverpool's Jordan Henderson in action with Tottenham Hotspur's Son Heung-min (Courtesy: Reuters) ] Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk then looked certain to head in Jordan Henderson's dinked cross but keeper Paulo Gazzaniga made a superb reflex save. With Tottenham sitting deeper and deeper the pressure finally told as they failed to clear the ball and Mohamed Salah's pass evaded Tanganga for Brazilian Firmino to fire past the stranded Gazzaniga. Spurs, without their injured talisman Harry Kane, were far more lively after the break as Liverpool's pace slowed. Son Heung-min wasted a great chance to equalise, curling the ball over the bar after Liverpool were caught in possession, and then substitute Giovani Lo Celso somehow missed the target with the goal gaping after being picked out by Serge Aurier. Erik Lamela also came off the bench and tested Liverpool keeper Alisson but the Reds showed incredible defensive discipline to record a sixth successive clean sheet.

English Premier League: Liverpool continue dominance as Firmino nets winner at Spurs

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-controversial-mane-goal-gets-liverpool-past-battling-wolves-270913">Sadio&nbsp;Mane</a>&nbsp;was named African Footballer of the Year for 2019 on Tuesday after winning the Champions League with Liverpool and leading Senegal to the Africa Cup of Nations final.

Mane, 27, wins the award for the first time after finishing runner-up to his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopps-kids-knock-everton-out-of-fa-cup-272440">Liverpool</a> teammate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juergen-klopp-hails-salahs-sensational-finish-267582">Mohamed Salah</a> of Egypt in 2017 and 2018. He was third in 2016.

He is only the second Senegalese to win the award after El Hadji Diouf, who was the winner in 2001 and after joining Liverpool in 2002.

"Football is my job, I love it. I am really happy and proud to win this award,"&nbsp;Mane&nbsp;said.

"I would like to thank all the Senegalese people, they push always me. I must also thank my (Senegal) coach, Aliou Cisse and Liverpool, all my teammates there."

Mane&nbsp;finished ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/riyad-mahrez-lifts-manchester-city-back-to-premier-league-summit-200809">Riyad Mahrez</a> and Salah in a poll of national team coaches and captains and was handed his award at the Confederation of African Football’s annual gala in Hurgada, Egypt.

It is the second successive year that the top three are all from English clubs and only the third time since the award was introduced that the leading trio all play in the same league.

In 1991, the top three all came from French clubs.

Mahrez, 28, captained <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algeria-prosecutor-seeks-heavy-sentences-against-ex-politicians-charged-with-corruption-267017">Algeria</a> to Africa Cup of Nations success in July and won the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-unbeaten-for-a-year-liverpool-271841">Premier League</a> with Manchester City. He was African Footballer of the Year in 2016.

Sadio Mane was named African Footballer of the Year for 2019 on Tuesday after winning the Champions League with Liverpool and leading Senegal to the Africa Cup of Nations final.

Sadio Mane was named African Footballer of the Year for 2019 on Tuesday after winning the Champions League with Liverpool and leading Senegal to the Africa Cup of Nations final. Mane, 27, wins the award for the first time after finishing runner-up to his Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah of Egypt in 2017 and 2018. He was third in 2016. He is only the second Senegalese to win the award after El Hadji Diouf, who was the winner in 2001 and after joining Liverpool in 2002. "Football is my job, I love it. I am really happy and proud to win this award," Mane said. "I would like to thank all the Senegalese people, they push always me. I must also thank my (Senegal) coach, Aliou Cisse and Liverpool, all my teammates there." Mane finished ahead of Riyad Mahrez and Salah in a poll of national team coaches and captains and was handed his award at the Confederation of African Football’s annual gala in Hurgada, Egypt. It is the second successive year that the top three are all from English clubs and only the third time since the award was introduced that the leading trio all play in the same league. In 1991, the top three all came from French clubs. Mahrez, 28, captained Algeria to Africa Cup of Nations success in July and won the Premier League with Manchester City. He was African Footballer of the Year in 2016.

Liverpool's Mane named African Footballer of the Year

A stunning strike from 18-year-old Curtis Jones gave a youthful Liverpool a 1-0 win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-ancelottis-everton-win-again-pearson-works-watford-magic-270814">Everton</a> in their FA Cup, third-round tie at Anfield on Sunday.

Tottenham Hotspur needed a Lucas Moura equaliser to avoid defeat at second-tier Middlesbrough as Jose Mourinho's stuttering side emerged with a 1-1 draw but Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest 2-0.

Premier League Crystal Place were knocked out by Championship side <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rooney-dons-captains-armband-on-derby-debut-in-win-over-barnsley-271897">Derby County</a> after suffering a 1-0 loss at Selhurst Park.

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-unbeaten-for-a-year-liverpool-271841">Juergen Klopp</a> made nine changes to his side, giving starts to three teenagers, while his Italian counterpart Carlo Ancelotti opted for a largely full-strength Everton lineup.

The gulf in experience between the two sides was barely evident, however, and will simply add to the pain for Everton, who are without a win at Anfield since September 1999.

For Liverpool, it was a performance which illustrated the talent coming through the production line at their Melwood training ground.

For local-born academy product Jones, it was a game he will never forget, delivering his first senior goal in a Merseyside derby.

"I can't sum up my emotions. For me, it’s huge just being around this team every day and learning from this group of players. There are world-class players all over this team but I think I went out and showed what I could do on the pitch," he said.

Everton should have gone into the break ahead, with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpools-klopp-unhappy-with-var-delays-in-win-over-wolves-270911">Liverpool</a> keeper Adrian foiling goalbound efforts from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Mason Holgate and Richarlison in the first half.

Ancelotti will be disappointed that on each of those occasions his players aimed straight at the Spanish keeper but worse was to come.

Klopp was visibly appreciating the sight of his youngsters buzzing around the field playing enterprising football with the German raising his arms in applause as teenagers Neco Williams, Harvey Elliott and Jones showed they are well-drilled in the Liverpool method.

Jones delivered the killer blow in the 71st minute when after a swift exchange with Divock Origi he unleashed a superb curling effort into the top corner, leaving Everton without a win against their rivals since October 2010.

"They played brave football. Unbelievable individual performances from the kids and the adults as well," said Klopp.

"Sensational game and a sensational goal from a Scouser - who could ask for more?"

Eight-times FA Cup winners Spurs trailed to Ashley Fletcher's fine finish just after the break but Moura's header spared a Tottenham side who were without injured striker Harry Kane.

Tottenham dominated following Moura's equaliser but Boro keeper Tomas Mejias, making his first start of the season, frustrated them with several saves as his side earned a replay.

Chelsea made nine changes to their starting line-up but beat Championship promotion hopefuls Forest with goals from Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ross Barkley.

Former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fa-cup-man-utd-held-by-wolves-man-city-cruise-through-272201">Manchester United</a> and England striker Wayne Rooney, back in England after a spell in Major League&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;with DC United, helped Championship side Derby County to spring a surprise with a 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace.

It was Rooney's first appearance in the FA Cup since he played for Everton - exactly two years ago - in a 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield.

Palace skipper Luka Milivojevic became the first player in an English match to be sent off as a result of a referee reviewing an incident on a pitch-side monitor during the loss.

Derby striker Chris Martin decided the game with a close-range effort in the 32nd minute.

Top-flight Sheffield United were made to work hard by minor league outfit AFC Fylde, winning 2-1.

In an all-Championship clash, West Bromwich Albion and Charlton Athletic make a combined 20 changes, with Albion winning 1-0 thanks to Kenneth Zohore's goal.

In another all-second tier encounter, Jordan Hugill, on loan from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-reappoint-moyes-in-bid-to-avoid-relegation-scrap-270956">West Ham United</a>, scored twice for Queens Park Rangers in their 5-1 win over Swansea City.

Premier League West Ham United beat third-tier Gillingham 2-0 with second-half goals from Pablo Zabaleta and Pablo Fornals.

A stunning strike from 18-year-old Curtis Jones gave a youthful Liverpool a 1-0 win over Everton in their FA Cup, third-round tie at Anfield on Sunday. Tottenham Hotspur needed a Lucas Moura equaliser to avoid defeat at second-tier Middlesbrough as Jose Mourinho's stuttering side emerged with a 1-1 draw but Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest 2-0.

A stunning strike from 18-year-old Curtis Jones gave a youthful Liverpool a 1-0 win over Everton in their FA Cup, third-round tie at Anfield on Sunday. Tottenham Hotspur needed a Lucas Moura equaliser to avoid defeat at second-tier Middlesbrough as Jose Mourinho's stuttering side emerged with a 1-1 draw but Chelsea beat Nottingham Forest 2-0. Premier League Crystal Place were knocked out by Championship side Derby County after suffering a 1-0 loss at Selhurst Park. Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp made nine changes to his side, giving starts to three teenagers, while his Italian counterpart Carlo Ancelotti opted for a largely full-strength Everton lineup. The gulf in experience between the two sides was barely evident, however, and will simply add to the pain for Everton, who are without a win at Anfield since September 1999. For Liverpool, it was a performance which illustrated the talent coming through the production line at their Melwood training ground. For local-born academy product Jones, it was a game he will never forget, delivering his first senior goal in a Merseyside derby. "I can't sum up my emotions. For me, it’s huge just being around this team every day and learning from this group of players. There are world-class players all over this team but I think I went out and showed what I could do on the pitch," he said. Everton should have gone into the break ahead, with Liverpool keeper Adrian foiling goalbound efforts from Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Mason Holgate and Richarlison in the first half. Ancelotti will be disappointed that on each of those occasions his players aimed straight at the Spanish keeper but worse was to come. Klopp was visibly appreciating the sight of his youngsters buzzing around the field playing enterprising football with the German raising his arms in applause as teenagers Neco Williams, Harvey Elliott and Jones showed they are well-drilled in the Liverpool method. Jones delivered the killer blow in the 71st minute when after a swift exchange with Divock Origi he unleashed a superb curling effort into the top corner, leaving Everton without a win against their rivals since October 2010. "They played brave football. Unbelievable individual performances from the kids and the adults as well," said Klopp. "Sensational game and a sensational goal from a Scouser - who could ask for more?" Eight-times FA Cup winners Spurs trailed to Ashley Fletcher's fine finish just after the break but Moura's header spared a Tottenham side who were without injured striker Harry Kane. Tottenham dominated following Moura's equaliser but Boro keeper Tomas Mejias, making his first start of the season, frustrated them with several saves as his side earned a replay. Chelsea made nine changes to their starting line-up but beat Championship promotion hopefuls Forest with goals from Callum Hudson-Odoi and Ross Barkley. Former Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney, back in England after a spell in Major League Soccer with DC United, helped Championship side Derby County to spring a surprise with a 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace. It was Rooney's first appearance in the FA Cup since he played for Everton - exactly two years ago - in a 2-1 loss to Liverpool at Anfield. Palace skipper Luka Milivojevic became the first player in an English match to be sent off as a result of a referee reviewing an incident on a pitch-side monitor during the loss. Derby striker Chris Martin decided the game with a close-range effort in the 32nd minute. Top-flight Sheffield United were made to work hard by minor league outfit AFC Fylde, winning 2-1. In an all-Championship clash, West Bromwich Albion and Charlton Athletic make a combined 20 changes, with Albion winning 1-0 thanks to Kenneth Zohore's goal. In another all-second tier encounter, Jordan Hugill, on loan from West Ham United, scored twice for Queens Park Rangers in their 5-1 win over Swansea City. Premier League West Ham United beat third-tier Gillingham 2-0 with second-half goals from Pablo Zabaleta and Pablo Fornals.

Klopp's Liverpool knock Everton out of FA Cup

Winners of their last 18 home league games,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-controversial-mane-goal-gets-liverpool-past-battling-wolves-270913">Liverpool</a>&nbsp;are&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;in 51 top-flight matches at Anfield dating back to April 2017.

As if it wasn't hard enough to beat&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;already, they are proving more impregnable than ever lately.

This was their fifth consecutive top-flight clean-sheet -&nbsp;the first time they have managed that since 2007 - and they completed more passes than any team in one match in the Premier League era.

"The way we controlled Sheffield United was exceptional. In possession we were incredible, we were calm but lively as well. The goals we scored were exceptional," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpools-klopp-unhappy-with-var-delays-in-win-over-wolves-270911">Klopp</a> said.

<img alt="Liverpool celebrate" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a082003-79e3-4ee4-a755-0693fd66bba8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_0.jpg" />

"It's obviously good (to go&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;for a year) but the target was not to extend this, but to win the game," the coach added.

"We did not think about the one year (undefeated). We have season resolutions, not New Year resolutions!"

After a golden 2019 saw&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;crowned European and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Club World champions</a>, the next target is ending Manchester City's two-year spell as champions after narrowly missing out last season.

Their sights set on domestic bliss, the new year started just as the old one finished, with&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;setting standards of excellence that rival anything achieved by City's breath-taking team.

Premier League immortality is within touching distance as Klopp's men are already over halfway towards an&nbsp;unbeaten&nbsp;league season that would replicate the incredible feat of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-dominate-manchester-united-in-first-win-for-arteta-271539">Arsenal</a>'s 2003-04 Invincibles.

Liverpool&nbsp;hadn't even kicked off when they suffered what could have been a distracting blow as Naby Keita was replaced by James Milner after being injured in the warm-up.

But the Reds are far too polished to lose focus and they were in front within four minutes.

Flushed with success

Their win at Bramall Lane in September had come thanks to a mistake from United keeper Dean Henderson and once again&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;benefitted from a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-man-city-see-off-sheffield-united-but-var-questioned-again-270925">Blades</a> blunder.

When Virgil van Dijk played a long pass towards Andrew Robertson, it should have been easy for George Baldock to deal with.

But Baldock lost his footing and fell over, allowing Robertson to advance and cross low to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/juergen-klopp-hails-salahs-sensational-finish-267582">Salah</a>, who got in front of Jack O'Connell to steer in a clinical close-range finish for his 14th goal of the season.

<img alt="Mo Salah" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16d3faf3-aec9-49f3-92e3-d712e526c09f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2819%29.jpg" />

Ahead of their first visit to Anfield for 13 year, Chris Wilder's down-to-earth side took the unusual decision to train alongside the public on Stanley Park in the shadow of the famous stadium.

The session was interrupted when a dog decided to use one of the training cones as a toilet.

That unpromising omen proved apt as the visitors' hopes of a shock result were flushed away.

<a href="wionews.com/sports/football-relentless-liverpool-have-no-time-for-reflection-270699">Liverpool</a>'s ability to press any opponent into submission and deliver the knockout blow with their lethal front three has made them virtually unplayable over the last 18 months. Running onto Robertson's pass, Mane broke into the area and took Salah's return pass before firing gleefully into the roof of the net after his initial shot was saved.

Winners of their last 18 home league games, Liverpool are unbeaten in 51 top-flight matches at Anfield dating back to April 2017. As if it wasn't hard enough to beat Liverpool already, they are proving more impregnable than ever lately.

Winners of their last 18 home league games, Liverpool are unbeaten in 51 top-flight matches at Anfield dating back to April 2017. As if it wasn't hard enough to beat Liverpool already, they are proving more impregnable than ever lately. This was their fifth consecutive top-flight clean-sheet - the first time they have managed that since 2007 - and they completed more passes than any team in one match in the Premier League era. "The way we controlled Sheffield United was exceptional. In possession we were incredible, we were calm but lively as well. The goals we scored were exceptional," Klopp said. "It's obviously good (to go unbeaten for a year) but the target was not to extend this, but to win the game," the coach added. "We did not think about the one year (undefeated). We have season resolutions, not New Year resolutions!" After a golden 2019 saw Liverpool crowned European and Club World champions, the next target is ending Manchester City's two-year spell as champions after narrowly missing out last season. Their sights set on domestic bliss, the new year started just as the old one finished, with Liverpool setting standards of excellence that rival anything achieved by City's breath-taking team. Premier League immortality is within touching distance as Klopp's men are already over halfway towards an unbeaten league season that would replicate the incredible feat of Arsenal's 2003-04 Invincibles. Liverpool hadn't even kicked off when they suffered what could have been a distracting blow as Naby Keita was replaced by James Milner after being injured in the warm-up. But the Reds are far too polished to lose focus and they were in front within four minutes. Flushed with success Their win at Bramall Lane in September had come thanks to a mistake from United keeper Dean Henderson and once again Liverpool benefitted from a Blades blunder. When Virgil van Dijk played a long pass towards Andrew Robertson, it should have been easy for George Baldock to deal with. But Baldock lost his footing and fell over, allowing Robertson to advance and cross low to Salah, who got in front of Jack O'Connell to steer in a clinical close-range finish for his 14th goal of the season. Ahead of their first visit to Anfield for 13 year, Chris Wilder's down-to-earth side took the unusual decision to train alongside the public on Stanley Park in the shadow of the famous stadium. The session was interrupted when a dog decided to use one of the training cones as a toilet. That unpromising omen proved apt as the visitors' hopes of a shock result were flushed away. Liverpool's ability to press any opponent into submission and deliver the knockout blow with their lethal front three has made them virtually unplayable over the last 18 months. Running onto Robertson's pass, Mane broke into the area and took Salah's return pass before firing gleefully into the roof of the net after his initial shot was saved.

Klopp's Liverpool: Premier League's unbeaten team stays hungry

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-title-bid-fades-after-stunning-loss-against-wolves-270681">Wolverhampton Wanderers</a> captain Conor Coady hit out at what he called the Premier League's ridiculous use of VAR after his side were on the receiving end of two controversial decisions in their 1-0 defeat to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mane-the-main-man-as-liverpool-close-on-champions-league-knockouts-264551">Sadio Mane</a>’s winner late in the first half had initially been disallowed by referee Anthony Taylor for handball by Adam Lallana in the build-up, only for a lengthy VAR intervention to overturn the decision and award the goal.

Wolves were then denied an equaliser two minutes later as Jonny Otto was deemed marginally offside by the video assistant before squaring to Pedro Neto, who fired into the bottom corner.

A seething Coady, who came through the Liverpool academy, called for better communication between the authorities, officials and players as the VAR technology is implemented in England’s top flight.

"We feel massively hard done by. I can't get my head around it. It’s ridiculous,” Coady told Sky Sports.

"For me it (VAR) is not working. Some people are saying it gets the right decision but we're the players on the pitch and it doesn't feel right to me. Anthony Taylor is a great fellow to speak to, but I ask a question and I don't get an answer.”

Coady explained that his side’s main grievance was not from the decision reached over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Lallana</a>’s control, but because they felt the ball had been handled earlier in the move by Virgil van Dijk, whose long pass to Lallana led to the goal.

"It is horrible for me, it is tough to take,” he said.

"We thought Van Dijk handballed it, but the referee tells me Van Dijk is too far away. He played the pass. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mourinho-confirms-tottenham-appeal-against-wrong-red-for-son-269877">VAR is affecting the game</a>. No-one has asked us (players) about it.

"It is still confusing, I can't get my head around it, you don't get answers on the pitch."

Wolves were also affected by VAR in their 3-2 come-from-behind win over Manchester City on Friday.

A review awarded City a penalty - ruling that Leander Dendoncker trod on the foot of winger Riyad Mahrez - but Wolves keeper Rui Patricio saved Raheem Sterling's spot kick.

However, VAR spotted an encroachment in the area by Coady who had cleared the loose ball and the penalty had to be retaken. Again, Patricio saved from Sterling but this time the England winger drove home the rebound to put City in front.

"It is so tough to take, it has happened twice to us in the last two games against probably the best two sides in the world," Coady added after Sunday's defeat at Anfield.

"In the second half we controlled the game and nullified <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-relentless-liverpool-have-no-time-for-reflection-270699">Liverpool</a> to hardly anything; but it is so disappointing that we are stood here talking about VAR rather than the game and the way Wolves played."

Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Conor Coady hit out at what he called the Premier League's ridiculous use of VAR after his side were on the receiving end of two controversial decisions in their 1-0 defeat to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday.

Wolverhampton Wanderers captain Conor Coady hit out at what he called the Premier League's ridiculous use of VAR after his side were on the receiving end of two controversial decisions in their 1-0 defeat to Premier League leaders Liverpool on Sunday. Sadio Mane’s winner late in the first half had initially been disallowed by referee Anthony Taylor for handball by Adam Lallana in the build-up, only for a lengthy VAR intervention to overturn the decision and award the goal. Wolves were then denied an equaliser two minutes later as Jonny Otto was deemed marginally offside by the video assistant before squaring to Pedro Neto, who fired into the bottom corner. A seething Coady, who came through the Liverpool academy, called for better communication between the authorities, officials and players as the VAR technology is implemented in England’s top flight. "We feel massively hard done by. I can't get my head around it. It’s ridiculous,” Coady told Sky Sports. "For me it (VAR) is not working. Some people are saying it gets the right decision but we're the players on the pitch and it doesn't feel right to me. Anthony Taylor is a great fellow to speak to, but I ask a question and I don't get an answer.” Coady explained that his side’s main grievance was not from the decision reached over Lallana’s control, but because they felt the ball had been handled earlier in the move by Virgil van Dijk, whose long pass to Lallana led to the goal. "It is horrible for me, it is tough to take,” he said. "We thought Van Dijk handballed it, but the referee tells me Van Dijk is too far away. He played the pass. VAR is affecting the game. No-one has asked us (players) about it. "It is still confusing, I can't get my head around it, you don't get answers on the pitch." Wolves were also affected by VAR in their 3-2 come-from-behind win over Manchester City on Friday. A review awarded City a penalty - ruling that Leander Dendoncker trod on the foot of winger Riyad Mahrez - but Wolves keeper Rui Patricio saved Raheem Sterling's spot kick. However, VAR spotted an encroachment in the area by Coady who had cleared the loose ball and the penalty had to be retaken. Again, Patricio saved from Sterling but this time the England winger drove home the rebound to put City in front. "It is so tough to take, it has happened twice to us in the last two games against probably the best two sides in the world," Coady added after Sunday's defeat at Anfield. "In the second half we controlled the game and nullified Liverpool to hardly anything; but it is so disappointing that we are stood here talking about VAR rather than the game and the way Wolves played."

Premier League: Wolves skipper Coady fumes at 'ridiculous' VAR decisions

The video assistant referee (VAR) system was back in the spotlight on Sunday after drawing the ire of both managers in Liverpool's 1-0 Premier League win over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-title-bid-fades-after-stunning-loss-against-wolves-270681">Wolverhampton Wanderers</a>.

Sadio Mane's goal restored Liverpool's 13-point lead over Leicester City at the top of the table but it was only confirmed after a lengthy VAR review to check for a possible handball by Adam Lallana in the build-up.

"We're in December and coming into January. Players standing around that long is not good," Liverpool boss <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-klopp-says-hectic-christmas-schedule-is-a-crime-270337">Juergen Klopp</a> said. "I'd prefer if referees went to the screen because it's directly next to us and never used, I don't know exactly why.

"If it's a tight offside with a small margin ... then I can understand it, but with the possible handball, I don't understand it.

"It would have gone quicker (by going to the screen), but that's how we do it in England and we cannot change that."

Wolves were then denied an equaliser by VAR, another decision that came after a long delay.

Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo, who was booked for protesting the disallowed goal, said he was not a fan of VAR decisions being taken miles away from where matches are being played.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-spurs-draw-2-2-at-norwich-amid-var-controversy-270812">VAR decisions</a> are made at a hub in Stockley Park, south West London.

"I don't like it," he added. "A referee in that situation doesn't feel the game like someone present at the match. It's not for me to say how things can be improved, but I think it's a pity."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-relentless-liverpool-have-no-time-for-reflection-270699">Liverpool</a> next play Sheffield United on Thursday while Wolves visit second-from-bottom Watford a day earlier.

The video assistant referee (VAR) system was back in the spotlight on Sunday after drawing the ire of both managers in Liverpool's 1-0 Premier League win over Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The video assistant referee (VAR) system was back in the spotlight on Sunday after drawing the ire of both managers in Liverpool's 1-0 Premier League win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Sadio Mane's goal restored Liverpool's 13-point lead over Leicester City at the top of the table but it was only confirmed after a lengthy VAR review to check for a possible handball by Adam Lallana in the build-up. "We're in December and coming into January. Players standing around that long is not good," Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp said. "I'd prefer if referees went to the screen because it's directly next to us and never used, I don't know exactly why. "If it's a tight offside with a small margin ... then I can understand it, but with the possible handball, I don't understand it. "It would have gone quicker (by going to the screen), but that's how we do it in England and we cannot change that." Wolves were then denied an equaliser by VAR, another decision that came after a long delay. Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo, who was booked for protesting the disallowed goal, said he was not a fan of VAR decisions being taken miles away from where matches are being played. The VAR decisions are made at a hub in Stockley Park, south West London. "I don't like it," he added. "A referee in that situation doesn't feel the game like someone present at the match. It's not for me to say how things can be improved, but I think it's a pity." Liverpool next play Sheffield United on Thursday while Wolves visit second-from-bottom Watford a day earlier.

Premier League: Liverpool's Klopp unhappy with VAR delays in win over Wolves

A controversial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mane-the-main-man-as-liverpool-close-on-champions-league-knockouts-264551">Sadio Mane</a> goal was enough for Premier League leaders Liverpool to secure a nervy 1-0 victory over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-title-bid-fades-after-stunning-loss-against-wolves-270681">Wolverhampton Wanderers</a> and open up a 13-point cushion over their nearest challengers on Sunday.

Mane, in his 150th game for the club, netted three minutes before the break only for Adam Lallana to be penalised for handball in the build-up. However, a lengthy VAR review deemed the ball hit the midfielder's shoulder and the goal stood.

Victory means Liverpool have become only the third team to go unbeaten in 50 consecutive home games in the English top flight, while they also closed out 2019 unbeaten at Anfield in all competitions for the fifth time in their history.

Liverpool have 55 points from 19 games, while Wolves are seventh in the table five points behind Chelsea in fourth.

Wolves, who had lost 15 of their previous 17 league visits to Anfield, made four changes from the side that stunned Manchester City 3-2 less than 48 hours previously.

They were the better side for large parts of the contest and might have taken something from the game had Joao Moutinho and Romain Saiss not blasted over presentable opportunities late on.

Liverpool, sporting gold <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">World Champions</a> badges on their shirts after their Club World Cup triumph, were rarely at their brilliant best but showed once again that they appear to have the mettle to claim a first domestic league title in 30 years.

The only goal of the game caused a flurry of controversy.

Referee Anthony Taylor had blown for handball as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-hunger-for-titles-like-an-addiction-lallana-269291">Lallana</a> brought down Virgil van Dijk’s long ball before Mane swept in a half-volley. A lengthy VAR stoppage ensued before the decision was overturned much to the fury of the Wolves players and bench.

The visitors were then left seething when denied an immediate riposte after Pedro Neto’s effort was disallowed – again following a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/var-system-has-made-four-errors-in-premier-league-referees-chief-249386">VAR review</a> – following the most marginal of offside decisions against Jonny Otto.

Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo was booked in the aftermath after protesting with fourth official Mike Dean, but following the match he refused to be drawn into a discussion on VAR.

"These decisions are being taken by a referee miles away and he doesn't have the feel for the game," he said.

"What we don't want is (what happened), to come to Anfield, Liverpool, a fantastic team, fantastic fans, fantastic stadium and we are left celebrating a non-goal.

"We had to manage our players. We played 45 hours ago, the way the players coped, a lot of them played 90 minutes in both, it's amazing and it tells you a lot about their character."

A controversial Sadio Mane goal was enough for Premier League leaders Liverpool to secure a nervy 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers and open up a 13-point cushion over their nearest challengers on Sunday.

A controversial Sadio Mane goal was enough for Premier League leaders Liverpool to secure a nervy 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers and open up a 13-point cushion over their nearest challengers on Sunday. Mane, in his 150th game for the club, netted three minutes before the break only for Adam Lallana to be penalised for handball in the build-up. However, a lengthy VAR review deemed the ball hit the midfielder's shoulder and the goal stood. Victory means Liverpool have become only the third team to go unbeaten in 50 consecutive home games in the English top flight, while they also closed out 2019 unbeaten at Anfield in all competitions for the fifth time in their history. Liverpool have 55 points from 19 games, while Wolves are seventh in the table five points behind Chelsea in fourth. Wolves, who had lost 15 of their previous 17 league visits to Anfield, made four changes from the side that stunned Manchester City 3-2 less than 48 hours previously. They were the better side for large parts of the contest and might have taken something from the game had Joao Moutinho and Romain Saiss not blasted over presentable opportunities late on. Liverpool, sporting gold World Champions badges on their shirts after their Club World Cup triumph, were rarely at their brilliant best but showed once again that they appear to have the mettle to claim a first domestic league title in 30 years. The only goal of the game caused a flurry of controversy. Referee Anthony Taylor had blown for handball as Lallana brought down Virgil van Dijk’s long ball before Mane swept in a half-volley. A lengthy VAR stoppage ensued before the decision was overturned much to the fury of the Wolves players and bench. The visitors were then left seething when denied an immediate riposte after Pedro Neto’s effort was disallowed – again following a VAR review – following the most marginal of offside decisions against Jonny Otto. Wolves coach Nuno Espirito Santo was booked in the aftermath after protesting with fourth official Mike Dean, but following the match he refused to be drawn into a discussion on VAR. "These decisions are being taken by a referee miles away and he doesn't have the feel for the game," he said. "What we don't want is (what happened), to come to Anfield, Liverpool, a fantastic team, fantastic fans, fantastic stadium and we are left celebrating a non-goal. "We had to manage our players. We played 45 hours ago, the way the players coped, a lot of them played 90 minutes in both, it's amazing and it tells you a lot about their character."

Premier League: Controversial Mane goal gets Liverpool past battling Wolves

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

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

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

Football: Relentless Liverpool have no time for reflection

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

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

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

Premier League: Irresistible Liverpool thrash Leicester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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