<p>Egypt coach Rui Vitoria said it was "too early to say" whether Mohamed Salah would play again at this year's Africa Cup of Nations after he sustained an injury in Thursday's 2-2 draw with Ghana.</p>

<p>The Liverpool striker went off late in the first half of the Group B game in Abidjan after appearing to clutch the back of his left leg.</p>

<p>"We don't know yet what is the problem. I hope not a big problem...It is too early to say something," said Vitoria after his team's second successive 2-2 draw in the tournament. "Salah is an amazing player, one of the best players in the world, so we want to have this kind of player always with us."</p>

<p>Salah's penalty in stoppage time spared Egypt from a shock loss to Mozambique in their opening game, and the Pharaohs were up against it once more against a much-improved Ghana side.</p>

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<p>The Black Stars, who were stunned 2-1 by Cape Verde to begin the competition, took the lead after Salah's injury when Mohammed Kudus hammered in a long-range shot in first-half stoppage time.</p>

<p>Omar Marmoush equalised before Kudus struck again, but Mostafa Mohamed ensured Egypt came away with a point as the Nantes forward netted for the second game in a row.</p>

<p>"The players were upset after conceding at the end of the first half...but it's football, we changed the mindset in the second half, we went for the game with positive energy," said Vitoria.</p>

<p>"Not because of Salah, but because the result was not good. The reaction and commitment of the team were good, but Salah is an amazing player and we cannot forget that."</p>

<p>Vitoria insisted that regardless of the nature of Salah's injury his team is still capable of winning a record-extending eighth AFCON title.</p>

<p>"Nobody wins the title without coming through difficult games...today we showed, mainly in the second half, the courage and quality of this team."</p>


Egypt coach Rui Vitoria said it was "too early to say" whether Mohamed Salah would play again at this year's Africa Cup of Nations after he sustained an injury in Thursday's 2-2 draw with Ghana.

Egypt coach Rui Vitoria said it was "too early to say" whether Mohamed Salah would play again at this year's Africa Cup of Nations after he sustained an injury in Thursday's 2-2 draw with Ghana. The Liverpool striker went off late in the first half of the Group B game in Abidjan after appearing to clutch the back of his left leg. "We don't know yet what is the problem. I hope not a big problem...It is too early to say something," said Vitoria after his team's second successive 2-2 draw in the tournament. "Salah is an amazing player, one of the best players in the world, so we want to have this kind of player always with us." Salah's penalty in stoppage time spared Egypt from a shock loss to Mozambique in their opening game, and the Pharaohs were up against it once more against a much-improved Ghana side. ALSO READ: Jordan Henderson joins Dutch side Ajax six months after signing for Al-Ettifaq in Saudi The Black Stars, who were stunned 2-1 by Cape Verde to begin the competition, took the lead after Salah's injury when Mohammed Kudus hammered in a long-range shot in first-half stoppage time. Omar Marmoush equalised before Kudus struck again, but Mostafa Mohamed ensured Egypt came away with a point as the Nantes forward netted for the second game in a row. "The players were upset after conceding at the end of the first half...but it's football, we changed the mindset in the second half, we went for the game with positive energy," said Vitoria. "Not because of Salah, but because the result was not good. The reaction and commitment of the team were good, but Salah is an amazing player and we cannot forget that." Vitoria insisted that regardless of the nature of Salah's injury his team is still capable of winning a record-extending eighth AFCON title. "Nobody wins the title without coming through difficult games...today we showed, mainly in the second half, the courage and quality of this team."

Egypt, Liverpool sweat on Mohamed Salah's injury during Africa Cup of Nations

<p>Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool stretched Newcastle's miserable run with a 4-2 victory at Anfield to open up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League on Monday.</p>

<p>Jurgen Klopp's team should have run out even more convincing winners as Martin Dubravka saved Salah's first-half penalty among 10 stops.</p>

<p>But Salah made amends from the spot after he, Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo had netted in the second half to inflict a seventh defeat in eight games on Newcastle.</p>

<p>Liverpool head into the Premier League's winter break five points clear of title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, with Aston Villa posing an unexpected challenge in second place.</p>

<p>"A special game, special night," said Klopp.&nbsp;"It was a sensational game from my team. We started extremely lively. Everyone saw Dubravka or we ourselves made sure the score didn't get too clear.</p>

<p>"Super game. I loved so many aspects of the game bar the goals we conceded."</p>

<p>Newcastle, by contrast, remain down in ninth and 11 points off the top four as the spotlight grows on Eddie Howe.</p>

<p>The Magpies have the second worst away record in the Premier League this season with just five points from 10 games.</p>

<p>Howe's men were fortunate not to be blown away by an embarrassing scoreline in stormy conditions at Anfield as Liverpool registered the highest expected goals ever in a Premier League game of 7.53.</p>

<p>"We're battling to get our best levels back. The effort and determination was there. As long as we continue to see that we'll be fine," said Howe.</p>

<p>"We're missing a lot of players and we've had a lot of tough fixtures in a congested December."</p>

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<h2>Dubravka denies Darwin</h2>

<p>Dubravka has struggled to deputise for the sidelined Nick Pope as Newcastle's form has slumped in recent weeks while battling an injury crisis.</p>

<p>But the Slovakian was in top form as he denied Darwin Nunez on a handful of ocassions.</p>

<p>Luis Diaz did have the ball in the net midway through the first half, but the goal was ruled out for offside against Nunez.</p>

<p>Diaz was then upended in the box by Sven Botman. But Dubravka bailed out the Dutch defender by denying Salah his 150th Premier League goal for Liverpool from the spot.</p>

<p>The Egyptian, who was playing in his final game before heading out to the African Cup of Nations, has now missed four of his last 10 spot-kicks for the Reds.</p>

<p>"I thought 'are you going to be leave for the national team with that performance?'" said Salah of his first-half display.</p>

<p>"I just had to really focus, step up and make the difference and managed to do so."</p>

<p>Finally Liverpool's pressure told early in the second period as for once Nunez showed a cool head to pick out Salah for a tap in.</p>

<p>But completely against the run of play, Newcastle equalised just five minutes after falling behind.</p>

<p>Alexander Isak timed his run to perfection to latch onto Anthony Gordon's through ball and the Swedish striker slotted confidently past the advancing Alisson Becker.</p>

<p>That shock did not change the course of the game as the one-way traffic towards the Newcastle goal continued.</p>

<p>Nunez's night ended in frustration as another golden chance came and went with his final touch as he headed wide.</p>

<p>Klopp&nbsp;sent on Diogo Jota and Gakpo and they delivered what Nunez could not in front of goal.</p>

<p>Jota teed up Jones for a tap in before Gakpo's scuffed finish from Salah's cross wrong-footed Dubravka.</p>

<p>Botman's header briefly brought Newcastle back within one goal.</p>

<p>But any hope of a remarkable fightback was extinguished in controversial fashion as Jota won a second penalty despite a delayed reaction to contact from Dubravka.</p>

<p>Klopp could not watch on the touchline, but this time his talisman did not disappoint to ensure the start to 2024 was a very happy new year for Liverpool.</p>


Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool stretched Newcastle's miserable run with a 4-2 victory at Anfield to open up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League on Monday.

Mohamed Salah scored twice as Liverpool stretched Newcastle's miserable run with a 4-2 victory at Anfield to open up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League on Monday. Jurgen Klopp's team should have run out even more convincing winners as Martin Dubravka saved Salah's first-half penalty among 10 stops. But Salah made amends from the spot after he, Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo had netted in the second half to inflict a seventh defeat in eight games on Newcastle. Liverpool head into the Premier League's winter break five points clear of title rivals Manchester City and Arsenal, with Aston Villa posing an unexpected challenge in second place. "A special game, special night," said Klopp. "It was a sensational game from my team. We started extremely lively. Everyone saw Dubravka or we ourselves made sure the score didn't get too clear. "Super game. I loved so many aspects of the game bar the goals we conceded." Newcastle, by contrast, remain down in ninth and 11 points off the top four as the spotlight grows on Eddie Howe. The Magpies have the second worst away record in the Premier League this season with just five points from 10 games. Howe's men were fortunate not to be blown away by an embarrassing scoreline in stormy conditions at Anfield as Liverpool registered the highest expected goals ever in a Premier League game of 7.53. "We're battling to get our best levels back. The effort and determination was there. As long as we continue to see that we'll be fine," said Howe. "We're missing a lot of players and we've had a lot of tough fixtures in a congested December." ALSO READ | Abrar Ahmed’s participation in Sydney Test remains ‘dicey’ as Pakistan eye consolation win Dubravka denies Darwin Dubravka has struggled to deputise for the sidelined Nick Pope as Newcastle's form has slumped in recent weeks while battling an injury crisis. But the Slovakian was in top form as he denied Darwin Nunez on a handful of ocassions. Luis Diaz did have the ball in the net midway through the first half, but the goal was ruled out for offside against Nunez. Diaz was then upended in the box by Sven Botman. But Dubravka bailed out the Dutch defender by denying Salah his 150th Premier League goal for Liverpool from the spot. The Egyptian, who was playing in his final game before heading out to the African Cup of Nations, has now missed four of his last 10 spot-kicks for the Reds. "I thought 'are you going to be leave for the national team with that performance?'" said Salah of his first-half display. "I just had to really focus, step up and make the difference and managed to do so." Finally Liverpool's pressure told early in the second period as for once Nunez showed a cool head to pick out Salah for a tap in. But completely against the run of play, Newcastle equalised just five minutes after falling behind. Alexander Isak timed his run to perfection to latch onto Anthony Gordon's through ball and the Swedish striker slotted confidently past the advancing Alisson Becker. That shock did not change the course of the game as the one-way traffic towards the Newcastle goal continued. Nunez's night ended in frustration as another golden chance came and went with his final touch as he headed wide. Klopp sent on Diogo Jota and Gakpo and they delivered what Nunez could not in front of goal. Jota teed up Jones for a tap in before Gakpo's scuffed finish from Salah's cross wrong-footed Dubravka. Botman's header briefly brought Newcastle back within one goal. But any hope of a remarkable fightback was extinguished in controversial fashion as Jota won a second penalty despite a delayed reaction to contact from Dubravka. Klopp could not watch on the touchline, but this time his talisman did not disappoint to ensure the start to 2024 was a very happy new year for Liverpool.

Premier League: Liverpool clinch thriller against Newcastle after Mohamed Salah's brace

<p>Arsenal took a shock lead in their Premier League contest against Liverpool as they stunned the Kop end of the Anfield ground on Saturday (Dec 23). Playing in the top of the table clash, the North London side was given an early lead by Brazilian Gabriel in the fourth minute as the home fans were left furious. Both Liverpool and Arsenal are meeting for the first time in this Premier League season with the top spot at stake as both rivals headed into the contest having been separated by just one point.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">🚨🚨| GOAL: Gabriel scores for Arsenal<br />
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Liverpool 0-1 Arsenal<br />
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<a href="https://t.co/tN412MPqqB">pic.twitter.com/tN412MPqqB</a></p>
— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) <a href="https://twitter.com/centregoals/status/1738614163478376515?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Gabriel stuns Anfield</strong></h2>

<p>Having been awarded a free kick in the third minute of the match, Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard flipped in a good ball on the edge of the Liverpool penalty area. With a spring in his step, Gabriel was first to get to the ball ahead of the Liverpool defenders and nodded in a good curling ball past Alison to open the scoring. This left the Kop end stunned with Jurgen Klopp’s side on the receiving end of a good set-piece play from Mikel Arteta’s men as they led 1-0 until the 28th minute.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the time of writing during the half time, the match was all square after Mohamed Salah equalised in the 30th minute. There were close chances for both teams before the half came to an end, but it remained 1-1 as both failed to convert in the final third.</p>

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<h2><strong>Premier League top spot up for grabs</strong></h2>

<p>Liverpool dropped points against Manchester United last week after a goalless draw at Anfield last Sunday. The Reds&nbsp;started&nbsp;day third in the Premier League table with 38 points&nbsp;after Aston Villa (39 points) salvaged a point against Sheffield United on Friday. Arsenal headed into the match with 39 points from 17 matches and could open a four-point gap if they win against Liverpool. While City are not in action, Arsenal could have an eight-point advantage over the title favourites if results go their way.</p>

<p>Spurs are also in the title hunt after their win over Everton earlier on Saturday and are on 36 points in 18 matches. They currently are fourth in the Premier League with fixtures against Brighton and Bournemouth coming before the end of the year.</p>


Arsenal took a shock lead in their Premier League contest against Liverpool as they stunned the Kop end of the Anfield ground on Saturday (Dec 23). Playing in the top of the table clash, the North London side was given an early lead by Brazilian Gabriel in the fourth minute as the home fans were left furious.

Arsenal took a shock lead in their Premier League contest against Liverpool as they stunned the Kop end of the Anfield ground on Saturday (Dec 23). Playing in the top of the table clash, the North London side was given an early lead by Brazilian Gabriel in the fourth minute as the home fans were left furious. Both Liverpool and Arsenal are meeting for the first time in this Premier League season with the top spot at stake as both rivals headed into the contest having been separated by just one point. 🚨🚨| GOAL: Gabriel scores for Arsenal Liverpool 0-1 Arsenal pic.twitter.com/tN412MPqqB — CentreGoals. (@centregoals) December 23, 2023 × Gabriel stuns Anfield Having been awarded a free kick in the third minute of the match, Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard flipped in a good ball on the edge of the Liverpool penalty area. With a spring in his step, Gabriel was first to get to the ball ahead of the Liverpool defenders and nodded in a good curling ball past Alison to open the scoring. This left the Kop end stunned with Jurgen Klopp’s side on the receiving end of a good set-piece play from Mikel Arteta’s men as they led 1-0 until the 28th minute. At the time of writing during the half time, the match was all square after Mohamed Salah equalised in the 30th minute. There were close chances for both teams before the half came to an end, but it remained 1-1 as both failed to convert in the final third. ALSO READ | Hardik Pandya likely to miss Afghanistan series in Jan due to ankle strain; doubtful for Mumbai Indians in IPL Premier League top spot up for grabs Liverpool dropped points against Manchester United last week after a goalless draw at Anfield last Sunday. The Reds started day third in the Premier League table with 38 points after Aston Villa (39 points) salvaged a point against Sheffield United on Friday. Arsenal headed into the match with 39 points from 17 matches and could open a four-point gap if they win against Liverpool. While City are not in action, Arsenal could have an eight-point advantage over the title favourites if results go their way. Spurs are also in the title hunt after their win over Everton earlier on Saturday and are on 36 points in 18 matches. They currently are fourth in the Premier League with fixtures against Brighton and Bournemouth coming before the end of the year.

WATCH: Gabriel stuns Kop as Arsenal take SHOCK early lead at Anfield in Premier League against Liverpool

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<p>Cody Gakpo's double fired Liverpool into the Europa League last 16 as they routed LASK 4-0, while Brighton advanced to the knockout round with a 1-0 win at AEK Athens on Thursday (Nov 30).</p>

<p>Jurgen Klopp's side sealed top spot in Group E thanks to Gakpo's brace and goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah at Anfield.</p>

<p>Second-placed Toulouse's 0-0 draw against Union Saint-Gilloise in the other group game means Klopp can rest players for his team's last remaining pool stage fixture.</p>

<p>Europa League group winners go through to the last 16 automatically, while the runners-up play in a two-legged knockout round play-off in February against a team who finish third in a Champions League group.</p>

<p>Klopp made nine changes from the side which drew with Premier League champions Manchester City last Saturday, with Salah and Kostas Tsimikas the only players to keep their places.</p>

<p>Rising to meet Joe Gomez's cross, Diaz netted his first goal at Anfield since August as his header raced past LASK keeper Tobias Lawal in the 12th minute.</p>

<p>Having opened the scoring, Diaz helped set up Liverpool's second three minutes later when he picked out Salah, who teed up Gakpo to net from close range.</p>

<p>Salah killed off the out-classed Austrians in the 51st minute, stroking home a penalty for his 13th goal this season after Gakpo was fouled by Lawal.</p>

<p>Dutch forward Gakpo capped the demolition with a fierce strike in stoppage time.</p>

<p>Unlike Liverpool's rich history in continental competition, Brighton are competing in Europe for the first time and the Seagulls' adventure will continue into the New Year thanks to Joao Pedro's winner in Greece.</p>

<p>Damian Szymanski fouled Joao Pedro in the 55th minute and the Brazilian striker picked himself up to slot home the penalty.</p>

<p>AEK's fate was sealed when they were reduced to 10 men in the 85th minute when Mijat Gacinovic earned a second booking for a foul on Joel Veltman.</p>

<p>Roberto De Zerbi's side are second in Group B, one point behind Marseille following the French side's dramatic 4-3 win over 10-man Ajax.</p>

<p>Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored a hat-trick for Marseille, including the winner with a penalty three minutes into stoppage time.</p>

<p>In the midst of a wretched season, Ajax had Steven Berghuis sent off in the 63rd minute and were consigned to elimination by their late defeat.</p>

<p>"Who knows how far we can go?" Brighton captain Lewis Dunk said. "We want to win it and you've got to dream big to achieve it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're going to set our sights on reaching the final and winning it."</p>

<h2>Soucek strikes late</h2>

<p>West Ham moved into the knockout round after a late Tomas Soucek goal saw off Backa Topola 1-0 in Serbia.</p>

<p>Soucek's 89th-minute volley from Maxwel Cornet's cross sealed the victory that put his team top of Group A.</p>

<p>Second-placed Freiburg thrashed Olympiakos 5-0 to join West Ham in the knockout round.</p>

<p>There is a three-way battle for qualification from Group C after third-placed Sparta Prague beat leaders Real Betis 1-0, while second-placed Rangers drew 1-1 with Aris Limassol.</p>

<p>Atalanta wrapped up top spot in Group D after a 1-1 draw against second-placed Sporting Lisbon, who are also through to the knockout round.</p>

<p>Rennes' 3-0 win against Maccabi Haifa took the French team to the top of Group F and into the knockout round, with Villarreal joining them after their 3-2 victory over Panathinaikos.</p>

<p>Slavia Prague's 3-2 win at Sheriff sealed their knockout round place from Group G and Roma also advanced with a 1-1 draw at Servette.</p>

<p>Bayer Leverkusen go through to the last 16 as Group H winners after beating Hacken 2-0.</p>

<p>In the Europa Conference League, crowd troubled marred Aston Villa's 2-1 win against Legia Warsaw as three police officers were injured in clashes with Polish fans.</p>

<p>The game was played with Legia supporters kept out of the stadium following the pre-match violence, which included flares and missiles being hurled at police.</p>


Cody Gakpo's double fired Liverpool into the Europa League last 16 as they routed LASK 4-0, while Brighton advanced to the knockout round with a 1-0 win at AEK Athens on Thursday (Nov 30).

Cody Gakpo's double fired Liverpool into the Europa League last 16 as they routed LASK 4-0, while Brighton advanced to the knockout round with a 1-0 win at AEK Athens on Thursday (Nov 30). Jurgen Klopp's side sealed top spot in Group E thanks to Gakpo's brace and goals from Luis Diaz and Mohamed Salah at Anfield. Second-placed Toulouse's 0-0 draw against Union Saint-Gilloise in the other group game means Klopp can rest players for his team's last remaining pool stage fixture. Europa League group winners go through to the last 16 automatically, while the runners-up play in a two-legged knockout round play-off in February against a team who finish third in a Champions League group. Klopp made nine changes from the side which drew with Premier League champions Manchester City last Saturday, with Salah and Kostas Tsimikas the only players to keep their places. Rising to meet Joe Gomez's cross, Diaz netted his first goal at Anfield since August as his header raced past LASK keeper Tobias Lawal in the 12th minute. Having opened the scoring, Diaz helped set up Liverpool's second three minutes later when he picked out Salah, who teed up Gakpo to net from close range. Salah killed off the out-classed Austrians in the 51st minute, stroking home a penalty for his 13th goal this season after Gakpo was fouled by Lawal. Dutch forward Gakpo capped the demolition with a fierce strike in stoppage time. Unlike Liverpool's rich history in continental competition, Brighton are competing in Europe for the first time and the Seagulls' adventure will continue into the New Year thanks to Joao Pedro's winner in Greece. Damian Szymanski fouled Joao Pedro in the 55th minute and the Brazilian striker picked himself up to slot home the penalty. AEK's fate was sealed when they were reduced to 10 men in the 85th minute when Mijat Gacinovic earned a second booking for a foul on Joel Veltman. Roberto De Zerbi's side are second in Group B, one point behind Marseille following the French side's dramatic 4-3 win over 10-man Ajax. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored a hat-trick for Marseille, including the winner with a penalty three minutes into stoppage time. In the midst of a wretched season, Ajax had Steven Berghuis sent off in the 63rd minute and were consigned to elimination by their late defeat. "Who knows how far we can go?" Brighton captain Lewis Dunk said. "We want to win it and you've got to dream big to achieve it. "We're going to set our sights on reaching the final and winning it." Soucek strikes late West Ham moved into the knockout round after a late Tomas Soucek goal saw off Backa Topola 1-0 in Serbia. Soucek's 89th-minute volley from Maxwel Cornet's cross sealed the victory that put his team top of Group A. Second-placed Freiburg thrashed Olympiakos 5-0 to join West Ham in the knockout round. There is a three-way battle for qualification from Group C after third-placed Sparta Prague beat leaders Real Betis 1-0, while second-placed Rangers drew 1-1 with Aris Limassol. Atalanta wrapped up top spot in Group D after a 1-1 draw against second-placed Sporting Lisbon, who are also through to the knockout round. Rennes' 3-0 win against Maccabi Haifa took the French team to the top of Group F and into the knockout round, with Villarreal joining them after their 3-2 victory over Panathinaikos. Slavia Prague's 3-2 win at Sheriff sealed their knockout round place from Group G and Roma also advanced with a 1-1 draw at Servette. Bayer Leverkusen go through to the last 16 as Group H winners after beating Hacken 2-0. In the Europa Conference League, crowd troubled marred Aston Villa's 2-1 win against Legia Warsaw as three police officers were injured in clashes with Polish fans. The game was played with Legia supporters kept out of the stadium following the pre-match violence, which included flares and missiles being hurled at police.

Europa League: Liverpool thump LASK, Marseille clinch thriller against Ajax

<p>Colombia said Friday the ELN guerrilla group will release the father of Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz, whom it abducted five days ago as it engaged in peace talks with Bogota.&nbsp;Interior Minister Luis Fernando Velasco told reporters that ELN representatives at the negotiations had indicated to government counterparts "that he will be released."</p>

<p>He added that "a safe area will have to be agreed" upon for the handover to happen. The Liverpool striker's mother, Cilenis Marulanda, was rescued hours after the pair were abducted in their home town of Barrancas near the Venezuelan border on Saturday, but his father, Luis Manuel Diaz, has been missing ever since, sparking a massive search.</p>

<p>On Thursday, the government said a unit of the ELN, or National Liberation Army, had taken the older Diaz, and demanded his immediate release. The ELN and the government of leftist President Gustavo Petro are in the midst of peace negotiations and a six-month ceasefire, which entered into force in August.</p>

<p>The president Friday expressed his "deepest rejection not only of the kidnapping of Luis' father, but also... that it (the ELN) has not yet been able to release him." Petro was in Washington attending an Americas economy summit.</p>

<p>"As time passes, the conditions in which Mr Diaz finds himself are becoming very dangerous" the president added, urging "an immediate effort" to free the hostage. The army said more than 250 soldiers were involved in a search by air and land for Diaz, aged 56, according to local media.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pro-kabaddi-league-2023-full-schedule-pkl-date-time-teams-venue-live-streaming-all-you-need-to-know-664172">Pro Kabaddi League 2023 Full schedule: PKL Date, Time, teams, venue, live streaming &amp; all you need to know</a></strong></p>

<p>"The operations... have not stopped for a single second," said Commander Llair Gonzalez of the specialized anti-kidnapping unit. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said Friday that Luis Diaz -- who has not spoken out about the kidnapping -- will decide for himself whether he wants to play in a Premier League match against Luton on Sunday.</p>

<p>The player "is quite shaken by this situation, he is very close to his father," Carlos Jimenez, a cousin of the elder Diaz told AFP in Barrancas. The ELN, Colombia's last recognized guerrilla group, started as a leftist ideological movement in 1964 before turning to crime -- focusing on kidnapping, extortion, violent attacks and drug trafficking.</p>

<p>More than 38,000 people have been kidnapped in Colombia over the years, mainly by groups raising funds with ransom money. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


Colombia said Friday the ELN guerrilla group will release the father of Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz, whom it abducted five days ago as it engaged in peace talks with Bogota.

Colombia said Friday the ELN guerrilla group will release the father of Liverpool footballer Luis Diaz, whom it abducted five days ago as it engaged in peace talks with Bogota. Interior Minister Luis Fernando Velasco told reporters that ELN representatives at the negotiations had indicated to government counterparts "that he will be released." He added that "a safe area will have to be agreed" upon for the handover to happen. The Liverpool striker's mother, Cilenis Marulanda, was rescued hours after the pair were abducted in their home town of Barrancas near the Venezuelan border on Saturday, but his father, Luis Manuel Diaz, has been missing ever since, sparking a massive search. On Thursday, the government said a unit of the ELN, or National Liberation Army, had taken the older Diaz, and demanded his immediate release. The ELN and the government of leftist President Gustavo Petro are in the midst of peace negotiations and a six-month ceasefire, which entered into force in August. The president Friday expressed his "deepest rejection not only of the kidnapping of Luis' father, but also... that it (the ELN) has not yet been able to release him." Petro was in Washington attending an Americas economy summit. "As time passes, the conditions in which Mr Diaz finds himself are becoming very dangerous" the president added, urging "an immediate effort" to free the hostage. The army said more than 250 soldiers were involved in a search by air and land for Diaz, aged 56, according to local media. Also Read: Pro Kabaddi League 2023 Full schedule: PKL Date, Time, teams, venue, live streaming & all you need to know "The operations... have not stopped for a single second," said Commander Llair Gonzalez of the specialized anti-kidnapping unit. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said Friday that Luis Diaz -- who has not spoken out about the kidnapping -- will decide for himself whether he wants to play in a Premier League match against Luton on Sunday. The player "is quite shaken by this situation, he is very close to his father," Carlos Jimenez, a cousin of the elder Diaz told AFP in Barrancas. The ELN, Colombia's last recognized guerrilla group, started as a leftist ideological movement in 1964 before turning to crime -- focusing on kidnapping, extortion, violent attacks and drug trafficking. More than 38,000 people have been kidnapped in Colombia over the years, mainly by groups raising funds with ransom money.

Colombia's representative says ELN guerrillas will free father of Liverpool star Luis Diaz

<p>Jürgen&nbsp;Klopp has criticised the Premier League and the broadcasters ahead of Liverpool's clash with treble-winners Manchester City. Klopp was fuming at the prospect of another 12:30 pm kick-off soon after the current international break is over, saying the schedule was made by&nbsp;“people who cannot feel football”.</p>

<p>Since the start of the season, Klopp's team have been handed three early kickoffs which is an inconvenience as the players returning from South America have little to no time to recover.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Today was about getting through the game and we did,” said Klopp after his team’s 3-0 win against Brentford at Anfield.</p>

<p>“The boys responded sensationally well. Now they are all gone and we can train once before Manchester City. How can you put a game like this on Saturday at 12.30 pm? Honestly, the people making these decisions, they cannot feel football, it is just not possible. And it is the moment where the world pays the most to see a football game.”</p>

<p>And Klopp has all the more reasons to criticise the authorities. Since Klopp has been in charge of the Merseyside club, his team has been selected for a&nbsp;12.30 pm start after an international break on 14 occasions. The statistic appears more dramatic when a comparison is made with the second team on the list.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tottenham Hotspur&nbsp;have played in six 12:30 pm games in the last eight years, which is a little less than half of what Liverpool have managed, casting serious aspersions over the decision-making process of the top Premier league hierarchy.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jurgen-klopp-demands-replay-of-liverpool-tottenham-match-after-var-chaos-642603"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Liverpool vs Manchester City</strong></h2>

<p>Liverpool vs Manchester City is one of the biggest games of the season, especially in the last decade. The two teams have had numerous title charges with Klopp's men coming second to City by a margin of a single point on two separate occasions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the match expected to attract attention globally, scheduling it at a non-primetime spot has not gone down well with the club supporters as well as the officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While City are currently top of the table after playing a thrilling 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge, the Reds have climbed to second spot, one point behind City. The winner of the match, scheduled on November 25 will be able to earn the bragging rights as well as crucial three points.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Jürgen Klopp has criticised the Premier League and the broadcasters ahead of Liverpool's clash with treble-winners Manchester City. Klopp was fuming at the prospect of another 12:30 pm kick-off soon after the current international break is over, saying the schedule was made by “people who cannot feel football”.

Jürgen Klopp has criticised the Premier League and the broadcasters ahead of Liverpool's clash with treble-winners Manchester City. Klopp was fuming at the prospect of another 12:30 pm kick-off soon after the current international break is over, saying the schedule was made by “people who cannot feel football”. Since the start of the season, Klopp's team have been handed three early kickoffs which is an inconvenience as the players returning from South America have little to no time to recover. “Today was about getting through the game and we did,” said Klopp after his team’s 3-0 win against Brentford at Anfield. “The boys responded sensationally well. Now they are all gone and we can train once before Manchester City. How can you put a game like this on Saturday at 12.30 pm? Honestly, the people making these decisions, they cannot feel football, it is just not possible. And it is the moment where the world pays the most to see a football game.” And Klopp has all the more reasons to criticise the authorities. Since Klopp has been in charge of the Merseyside club, his team has been selected for a 12.30 pm start after an international break on 14 occasions. The statistic appears more dramatic when a comparison is made with the second team on the list. Tottenham Hotspur have played in six 12:30 pm games in the last eight years, which is a little less than half of what Liverpool have managed, casting serious aspersions over the decision-making process of the top Premier league hierarchy. Also read | Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos Liverpool vs Manchester City Liverpool vs Manchester City is one of the biggest games of the season, especially in the last decade. The two teams have had numerous title charges with Klopp's men coming second to City by a margin of a single point on two separate occasions. With the match expected to attract attention globally, scheduling it at a non-primetime spot has not gone down well with the club supporters as well as the officials. While City are currently top of the table after playing a thrilling 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge, the Reds have climbed to second spot, one point behind City. The winner of the match, scheduled on November 25 will be able to earn the bragging rights as well as crucial three points. (With inputs from agencies)

'How can you?': Jürgen Klopp slams broadcasters for another 12:30 pm kickoff for Liverpool

<p>A unit of the ELN guerrilla group was behind the kidnapping in Colombia last weekend&nbsp;of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz's parents, the government said Thursday.</p>

<p>The kidnapping of Luis Manuel Diaz and Cilenis Marulanda -- she was rescued the same day -- "was perpetrated by a unit belonging to the ELN," a government official said on X, formerly Twitter, adding: "we demand the ELN immediately free" the missing man.</p>

<p>The ELN and the government of leftist President Gustavo Petro are in the midst of peace negotiations that include a six-month ceasefire, currently in effect.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-cwc-23-kohli-surpasses-tendulkars-all-time-record-of-most-1000-run-years-in-odis-654292">IND vs SL, CWC '23: Kohli surpasses Tendulkar’s all-time record of most 1000-run years in ODIs</a></p>

<p>Colombia and Liverpool striker Diaz's parents were taken Saturday by armed men on motorcycles at a gas station in their home town of Barrancas in the northern La Guajira department. Marulanda was rescued in Barrancas hours later.</p>

<p>Colombian authorities have said there has been no ransom demand.</p>

<p>"We demand the ELN immediately free Luis Manuel Diaz," said Thursday's statement signed by Otty Patino, the head of the government delegation in peace talks with the ELN.</p>

<p>He added it was the ELN's "responsibility to guarantee his life and integrity."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Attorney General Francisco Barbosa has said the older Diaz "could be" in Venezuela, without giving further details.</p>

<p>The ELN has not claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.</p>


A unit of the ELN guerrilla group was behind the kidnapping in Colombia last weekend of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz's parents, the government said Thursday. The kidnapping of Luis Manuel Diaz and Cilenis Marulanda -- she was rescued the same day -- "was perpetrated by a unit belonging to the ELN," a government official said on X, formerly Twitter, adding: "we demand the ELN immediately free" the missing man.

A unit of the ELN guerrilla group was behind the kidnapping in Colombia last weekend of Liverpool winger Luis Diaz's parents, the government said Thursday. The kidnapping of Luis Manuel Diaz and Cilenis Marulanda -- she was rescued the same day -- "was perpetrated by a unit belonging to the ELN," a government official said on X, formerly Twitter, adding: "we demand the ELN immediately free" the missing man. The ELN and the government of leftist President Gustavo Petro are in the midst of peace negotiations that include a six-month ceasefire, currently in effect. ALSO READ | IND vs SL, CWC '23: Kohli surpasses Tendulkar’s all-time record of most 1000-run years in ODIs Colombia and Liverpool striker Diaz's parents were taken Saturday by armed men on motorcycles at a gas station in their home town of Barrancas in the northern La Guajira department. Marulanda was rescued in Barrancas hours later. Colombian authorities have said there has been no ransom demand. "We demand the ELN immediately free Luis Manuel Diaz," said Thursday's statement signed by Otty Patino, the head of the government delegation in peace talks with the ELN. He added it was the ELN's "responsibility to guarantee his life and integrity." Attorney General Francisco Barbosa has said the older Diaz "could be" in Venezuela, without giving further details. The ELN has not claimed responsibility for the kidnapping.

Football: Colombian guerrilla group kidnapped Liverpool striker Luis Diaz's parents

<p>Liverpool forward Luis Diaz's parents were kidnapped on Saturday (October 28) in Colombia by gunmen on motorbikes. While Diaz's mother was later rescued, his father remains missing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Colombian media reports, the parents of the 26-year-old winger were kidnapped as they were driving to their home. Armed men travelling on motorbikes approached them and later kidnapped them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Colombian&nbsp;President Gustavo Petro taking stock of the situation said Diaz's mother,&nbsp;Cilenis Marulanda was rescued by police in the city of Barrancas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In a padlock operation in Barrancas, Luis Diaz's mother has been rescued, we continue the search for the father," the president posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.</p>

<p>"She is in good health, scared, but she is fine. They took the father away on a motorcycle, they took him out of the car and took him along the trails there."</p>

<p>General William Salamanca, the South American country's police director said he was using every agent to find Diaz's father.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Colombia's football federation said the kidnapping was regrettable - and urged authorities to rescue the father.</p>

<p>"The Colombian Football Federation rejects the security situation that the parents of our player Luis Díaz are going through," a statement said.</p>

<p>"From the FCF, we express our solidarity with him and his entire family, and we call for the relevant authorities to act as quickly as possible to resolve the situation."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/top-5-lastminute-winners-by-liverpool-across-competitions--1693311054098"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Top 5 Last-Minute Winners By Liverpool Across Competitions</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Luis Diaz might miss PL action</strong></h2>

<p>The incident came a day before Diaz is scheduled to play against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League encounter at Anfield. It remains unclear if the winger would feature in the match or not.&nbsp;Diaz was an unused substitute during the club's recent Europa League match against Toulouse on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Liverpool, meanwhile, released a statement saying it was aware of the ongoing situation and would take steps to ensure the well-being of the player.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Liverpool Football Club can confirm it is aware of an ongoing situation involving the family of Luis Diaz in Colombia. It is our fervent hope that the matter is resolved safely and at the earliest possible opportunity. In the meantime, the player’s welfare will continue to be our immediate priority,"</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Liverpool forward Luis Diaz's parents were kidnapped on Saturday (October 28) in Colombia by gunmen on motorbikes. While Diaz's mother was later rescued, his father remains missing.

Liverpool forward Luis Diaz's parents were kidnapped on Saturday (October 28) in Colombia by gunmen on motorbikes. While Diaz's mother was later rescued, his father remains missing. According to Colombian media reports, the parents of the 26-year-old winger were kidnapped as they were driving to their home. Armed men travelling on motorbikes approached them and later kidnapped them. Colombian President Gustavo Petro taking stock of the situation said Diaz's mother, Cilenis Marulanda was rescued by police in the city of Barrancas. "In a padlock operation in Barrancas, Luis Diaz's mother has been rescued, we continue the search for the father," the president posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. "She is in good health, scared, but she is fine. They took the father away on a motorcycle, they took him out of the car and took him along the trails there." General William Salamanca, the South American country's police director said he was using every agent to find Diaz's father. Colombia's football federation said the kidnapping was regrettable - and urged authorities to rescue the father. "The Colombian Football Federation rejects the security situation that the parents of our player Luis Díaz are going through," a statement said. "From the FCF, we express our solidarity with him and his entire family, and we call for the relevant authorities to act as quickly as possible to resolve the situation." Also read | Top 5 Last-Minute Winners By Liverpool Across Competitions Luis Diaz might miss PL action The incident came a day before Diaz is scheduled to play against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League encounter at Anfield. It remains unclear if the winger would feature in the match or not. Diaz was an unused substitute during the club's recent Europa League match against Toulouse on Thursday. Liverpool, meanwhile, released a statement saying it was aware of the ongoing situation and would take steps to ensure the well-being of the player. "Liverpool Football Club can confirm it is aware of an ongoing situation involving the family of Luis Diaz in Colombia. It is our fervent hope that the matter is resolved safely and at the earliest possible opportunity. In the meantime, the player’s welfare will continue to be our immediate priority," (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Liverpool star Luis Diaz's parents kidnapped in Colombia, father remains missing

<p>Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has called for a replay of the match that his team lost 2-1 against Tottenham Hotspur&nbsp;last weekend, owing to poor refereeing decisions involving the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking ahead of his side's Europa League tie against Union Saint-Gilloise, Klopp said: “I think the only outcome for the Tottenham-Liverpool game should be a replay.”</p>

<p>The German manager, however, conceded that it was highly unlikely that such an outcome would come to fruition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It probably won’t happen. I think it is so unprecedented; it didn’t happen before.”</p>

<p>Klopp's demand comes a day after the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) released the audio of the incident where Luis Diaz's goal was wrongfully chalked out by the VAR.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Klopp said the release of the audio should not mean the end of the matter, whilst accepting that it was an 'obvious mistake'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The audio didn’t change it at all. It is an obvious mistake. I think there should be solutions for that. I think the outcome should be a replay. The argument against that would be it opens the gates...I’m used to wrong and difficult decisions but something like this never happened and so that is why I think a replay is the right thing to do.”</p>

<p>Quizzed if the club had formally requested the Premier League for a replay, Klopp said: “At this stage, we are still going through the information we have."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/icc-world-cup-2023-1986-wc-winning-coach-dav-whatmore-picks-game-changers-for-wc-642233"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>VAR audio released</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, the audio released on Tuesday (October 3) revealed that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook had the opportunity to correct their mistake after the VAR replay operator reminded them they had taken the wrong call.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, instead of using the rules as a framework and applying common sense, England displayed rigidity and said he could not do anything, even though the game had been in the next phase for barely 15 seconds.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-blast-pgmol-over-unfair-var-call-release-hard-hit-statement-after-spurs-defeat-641656" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Premier League: Liverpool blast PGMOL over 'unfair' VAR call, release strong statement after Spurs defeat</strong></a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Liverpool officials go through the recording, PGMOL has axed Darren England and Dan Cook for a successive week, following their calamitous performance. Both had missed last week's Premier League fixtures and will continue to sit on the sidelines over the weekend as well.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has called for a replay of the match that his team lost 2-1 against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, owing to poor refereeing decisions involving the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee).

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has called for a replay of the match that his team lost 2-1 against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, owing to poor refereeing decisions involving the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee). Speaking ahead of his side's Europa League tie against Union Saint-Gilloise, Klopp said: “I think the only outcome for the Tottenham-Liverpool game should be a replay.” The German manager, however, conceded that it was highly unlikely that such an outcome would come to fruition. “It probably won’t happen. I think it is so unprecedented; it didn’t happen before.” Klopp's demand comes a day after the Professional Game Match Officials Ltd (PGMOL) released the audio of the incident where Luis Diaz's goal was wrongfully chalked out by the VAR. Klopp said the release of the audio should not mean the end of the matter, whilst accepting that it was an 'obvious mistake'. “The audio didn’t change it at all. It is an obvious mistake. I think there should be solutions for that. I think the outcome should be a replay. The argument against that would be it opens the gates...I’m used to wrong and difficult decisions but something like this never happened and so that is why I think a replay is the right thing to do.” Quizzed if the club had formally requested the Premier League for a replay, Klopp said: “At this stage, we are still going through the information we have." Watch | ICC World Cup 2023: 1996 WC-winning coach Dav Whatmore picks game-changers for WC × VAR audio released Notably, the audio released on Tuesday (October 3) revealed that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook had the opportunity to correct their mistake after the VAR replay operator reminded them they had taken the wrong call. However, instead of using the rules as a framework and applying common sense, England displayed rigidity and said he could not do anything, even though the game had been in the next phase for barely 15 seconds. Also read | Premier League: Liverpool blast PGMOL over 'unfair' VAR call, release strong statement after Spurs defeat While Liverpool officials go through the recording, PGMOL has axed Darren England and Dan Cook for a successive week, following their calamitous performance. Both had missed last week's Premier League fixtures and will continue to sit on the sidelines over the weekend as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Jurgen Klopp demands replay of Liverpool-Tottenham match after VAR chaos

<p>Liverpool Football Club has received the 'controversial' audio recording between referee Simon Hooper and the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee) Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook that saw the officials wrongfully chalk away a goal that would have allowed the Reds to lead Tottenham Hotspurs last weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a <em>Telegraph </em>report, Liverpool have been granted the recording&nbsp;by&nbsp;Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and will take their time in reviewing the tapes. Howard Webb, the chief of the referee body is expected to release the recording publically in a matter of days as the&nbsp;VAR crisis reaches its pinnacle in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both Webb and PGMOL succumbed to Liverpool's demand for the tape, less than 24 hours after the club put out a scathing statement and vowed to achieve full transparency in the way VAR operates currently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Liverpool officials go through the recording, PGMOL has axed Darren England and Dan Cook for a successive week, following their calamitous performance. Both had missed last week's Premier League fixtures and will continue to sit on the sidelines over the weekend as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-assault-fans-angry-after-var-misses-vinicius-karate-chop-on-thiago-silva-642143"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'It was assault': Fans angry after VAR misses Vinicius' karate chop on Thiago Silva</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>What did VAR do?</strong></h2>

<p>Down to 10 men, the team from Merseyside took the lead, courtesy of a fabulous finish from Colombian striker Luis Diaz at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London last week. However, the referee and VAR deemed the goal to be offside, without drawing the usual lines and going through the footage multiple times, as is the norm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the match, PGMOL released an apology statement where it recognised that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook failed to overturn the on-field decision of offside despite carrying out the required procedures.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-blast-pgmol-over-unfair-var-call-release-hard-hit-statement-after-spurs-defeat-641656" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Premier League: Liverpool blast PGMOL over 'unfair' VAR call, release strong statement after Spurs defeat</strong></a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>PGMOL released a statement, accepting the human error by the officials. However, the situation did not go well with Liverpool, who also released a statement to clear their stand.</p>

<p>“We fully accept the pressures that match officials work under but these pressures are supposed to be alleviated, not exacerbated, by the existence and implementation of VAR," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It is therefore unsatisfactory that sufficient time was not afforded to allow the correct decision to be made and that there was no subsequent intervention," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Liverpool Football Club has received the 'controversial' audio recording between referee Simon Hooper and the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee) Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook that saw the officials wrongfully chalk away a goal that would have allowed the Reds to lead Tottenham Hotspurs last weekend.

Liverpool Football Club has received the 'controversial' audio recording between referee Simon Hooper and the VAR (Virtual Assistant Referee) Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook that saw the officials wrongfully chalk away a goal that would have allowed the Reds to lead Tottenham Hotspurs last weekend. According to a Telegraph report, Liverpool have been granted the recording by Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and will take their time in reviewing the tapes. Howard Webb, the chief of the referee body is expected to release the recording publically in a matter of days as the VAR crisis reaches its pinnacle in the country. Both Webb and PGMOL succumbed to Liverpool's demand for the tape, less than 24 hours after the club put out a scathing statement and vowed to achieve full transparency in the way VAR operates currently. While Liverpool officials go through the recording, PGMOL has axed Darren England and Dan Cook for a successive week, following their calamitous performance. Both had missed last week's Premier League fixtures and will continue to sit on the sidelines over the weekend as well. Also read | 'It was assault': Fans angry after VAR misses Vinicius' karate chop on Thiago Silva What did VAR do? Down to 10 men, the team from Merseyside took the lead, courtesy of a fabulous finish from Colombian striker Luis Diaz at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London last week. However, the referee and VAR deemed the goal to be offside, without drawing the usual lines and going through the footage multiple times, as is the norm. After the match, PGMOL released an apology statement where it recognised that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook failed to overturn the on-field decision of offside despite carrying out the required procedures. Also read | Premier League: Liverpool blast PGMOL over 'unfair' VAR call, release strong statement after Spurs defeat PGMOL released a statement, accepting the human error by the officials. However, the situation did not go well with Liverpool, who also released a statement to clear their stand. “We fully accept the pressures that match officials work under but these pressures are supposed to be alleviated, not exacerbated, by the existence and implementation of VAR," read the statement. “It is therefore unsatisfactory that sufficient time was not afforded to allow the correct decision to be made and that there was no subsequent intervention," it added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Liverpool receive 'controversial' VAR audio as PGMOL axes officials from Premier League duty

<p>Liverpool Football Club have taken a massive dig at the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) after they admitted their error in their Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, September 30. Liverpool’s Luis Díaz had a goal disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the first half of their Premier League match for offside. However, replays showed that Diaz was played onside and the goal should have stood.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Liverpool Football Club acknowledges PGMOL’s admission of their failures last night.<br />
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It is clear that the correct application of the laws of the game did not occur, resulting in sporting integrity being undermined.</p>
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<h2><strong>Liverpool blast PGMOL</strong></h2>

<p>The PGMOL later admitted&nbsp;that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook failed to overturn the on-field decision of offside&nbsp;despite carrying out the required procedures. PGMOL released a statement, accepting the human error by the officials. However, the situation did not go well with Liverpool, who&nbsp;also released a statement to clear their stand.</p>

<p>“We fully accept the pressures that match officials work under but these pressures are supposed to be alleviated, not exacerbated, by the existence and implementation of VAR.</p>

<p>“It is therefore unsatisfactory that sufficient time was not afforded to allow the correct decision to be made and that there was no subsequent intervention.</p>

<p>“That such failings have already been categorised as 'significant human error'&nbsp;is also unacceptable. Any and all outcomes should be established only by the review and with full transparency.</p>

<p>“This is vital for the reliability of future decision-making as it applies to all clubs with learnings being used to make improvements to processes in order to ensure this kind of situation cannot occur again.</p>

<p>“In the meantime, we will explore the range of options available, given the clear need for escalation and resolution,” a statement released from Liverpool read.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwc-2023-team-wasnt-gelled-well-there-were-no-discussions-moin-khan-after-pakistans-loss-to-nz-in-warm-up-641560">CWC 2023: Team wasn’t gelled well, there were no discussions: Moin Khan after Pakistan’s loss to NZ in warm-up</a></p>

<h2><strong>Liverpool’s unbeaten run comes to an end&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Diaz’s goal disallowed had a huge bearing on the outcome of the contest as Liverpool lost to Spurs in a close contest. Liverpool were down to 10-man when Diaz scored the controversial goal while Spurs would later score to make it 1-0 in their favour. Although the Reds managed to equalise in the first half stoppage time, they ultimately lost the contest when Joel Matip scored an own goal presenting Tottenham their first win in six years against Liverpool.</p>

<p>The stoppage time goal was the latest winning own goal in the Premier League, which brought their 19-game unbeaten run to a halt. The Reds were also reduced to nine men when Diego Jota was sent off for a second bookable offense in the second half.</p>

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Liverpool Football Club have taken a massive dig at the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) after they admitted their error in their Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, September 30.

Liverpool Football Club have taken a massive dig at the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) after they admitted their error in their Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, September 30. Liverpool’s Luis Díaz had a goal disallowed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the first half of their Premier League match for offside. However, replays showed that Diaz was played onside and the goal should have stood. Liverpool Football Club acknowledges PGMOL’s admission of their failures last night. It is clear that the correct application of the laws of the game did not occur, resulting in sporting integrity being undermined. — Liverpool FC (@LFC) October 1, 2023 × Liverpool blast PGMOL The PGMOL later admitted that VAR Darren England and his assistant Dan Cook failed to overturn the on-field decision of offside despite carrying out the required procedures. PGMOL released a statement, accepting the human error by the officials. However, the situation did not go well with Liverpool, who also released a statement to clear their stand. “We fully accept the pressures that match officials work under but these pressures are supposed to be alleviated, not exacerbated, by the existence and implementation of VAR. “It is therefore unsatisfactory that sufficient time was not afforded to allow the correct decision to be made and that there was no subsequent intervention. “That such failings have already been categorised as 'significant human error' is also unacceptable. Any and all outcomes should be established only by the review and with full transparency. “This is vital for the reliability of future decision-making as it applies to all clubs with learnings being used to make improvements to processes in order to ensure this kind of situation cannot occur again. “In the meantime, we will explore the range of options available, given the clear need for escalation and resolution,” a statement released from Liverpool read. ALSO READ | CWC 2023: Team wasn’t gelled well, there were no discussions: Moin Khan after Pakistan’s loss to NZ in warm-up Liverpool’s unbeaten run comes to an end Diaz’s goal disallowed had a huge bearing on the outcome of the contest as Liverpool lost to Spurs in a close contest. Liverpool were down to 10-man when Diaz scored the controversial goal while Spurs would later score to make it 1-0 in their favour. Although the Reds managed to equalise in the first half stoppage time, they ultimately lost the contest when Joel Matip scored an own goal presenting Tottenham their first win in six years against Liverpool. The stoppage time goal was the latest winning own goal in the Premier League, which brought their 19-game unbeaten run to a halt. The Reds were also reduced to nine men when Diego Jota was sent off for a second bookable offense in the second half. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Liverpool blast PGMOL over 'unfair' VAR call, release strong statement after Spurs defeat

<p>Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk will serve an extended one-match ban for his improper behaviour during the Newcastle United match in August. The Dutch defender initially suspended for one match for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity to Newcastle attacker Alexander Isak will now have to sit out of the Wolves game after the international break having admitted that he acted improperly and used abusive and insulting words towards a match official. In addition, he was also fined £100,000 ($125, 000).</p>

<h2><strong>Van Djik given extended ban</strong></h2>

<p>"Virgil van Dijk has been suspended for one match and fined £100,000 for breaching FA Rule E3.1 during Liverpool's Premier League fixture against Newcastle on Sunday, August 27,” a statement from the Football Association (FA) read.</p>

<p>"The defender admitted that he acted in an improper manner and used abusive and insulting words towards a match official after being sent off in the 29th minute, and the sanctions were subsequently imposed by an independent regulatory commission."</p>

<p>Van Dijk was dismissed in the first half of the contest at St. James’ Park as Newcastle led 1-0 at that time. The Reds then played the rest of the match with 10 players but still ended up winning the contest. Super Sub Darwin Nunez scored in the 81st minute to equalise and then popped up with an unlikely winner in the 93rd minute to snatch all three points for Liverpool.</p>

<p>Van Dijk’s suspension did not have too many problems for Liverpool as they beat Aston Villa 3-0 before the international break. The Dutch veteran will now serve his second game suspension against Wolves at Molineux when Jurgen Klopp’s men pay a visit to the Midlands club after the international game.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-eyes-chris-gayles-unique-odi-record-showers-praise-on-rahul-dravid-633713">Rohit Sharma eyes Chris Gayle's unique ODI record, showers praise on Rahul Dravid</a></p>

<h2><strong>Liverpool’s best run</strong></h2>

<p>Van Dijk’s first game after return could come in the Europe League against LASK on Thursday, September 21 while his first Premier League could see him feature against high-flying West Ham at the tail end of the month. Klopp’s men have made an unbeaten start to the Premier League season having scalped 10 points from four matches with their only draw coming against Chelsea in their opening match.</p>

<p>The Reds are currently on a run of 13 matches without a defeat in the Premier League, stretching back to last season. A win for them in the early kick-off on Saturday, September 16 will them go top of the table with both Spurs and Man City in action later in the day.</p>

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Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk will serve an extended one-match ban for his improper behaviour during the Newcastle United match in August. The Dutch defender initially suspended for one match for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity to Newcastle attacker Alexander Isak will now have to sit out of the Wolves game after the international break having admitted that he acted improperly and used abusive and insulting words towards a match official.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk will serve an extended one-match ban for his improper behaviour during the Newcastle United match in August. The Dutch defender initially suspended for one match for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity to Newcastle attacker Alexander Isak will now have to sit out of the Wolves game after the international break having admitted that he acted improperly and used abusive and insulting words towards a match official. In addition, he was also fined £100,000 ($125, 000). Van Djik given extended ban "Virgil van Dijk has been suspended for one match and fined £100,000 for breaching FA Rule E3.1 during Liverpool's Premier League fixture against Newcastle on Sunday, August 27,” a statement from the Football Association (FA) read. "The defender admitted that he acted in an improper manner and used abusive and insulting words towards a match official after being sent off in the 29th minute, and the sanctions were subsequently imposed by an independent regulatory commission." Van Dijk was dismissed in the first half of the contest at St. James’ Park as Newcastle led 1-0 at that time. The Reds then played the rest of the match with 10 players but still ended up winning the contest. Super Sub Darwin Nunez scored in the 81st minute to equalise and then popped up with an unlikely winner in the 93rd minute to snatch all three points for Liverpool. Van Dijk’s suspension did not have too many problems for Liverpool as they beat Aston Villa 3-0 before the international break. The Dutch veteran will now serve his second game suspension against Wolves at Molineux when Jurgen Klopp’s men pay a visit to the Midlands club after the international game. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma eyes Chris Gayle's unique ODI record, showers praise on Rahul Dravid Liverpool’s best run Van Dijk’s first game after return could come in the Europe League against LASK on Thursday, September 21 while his first Premier League could see him feature against high-flying West Ham at the tail end of the month. Klopp’s men have made an unbeaten start to the Premier League season having scalped 10 points from four matches with their only draw coming against Chelsea in their opening match. The Reds are currently on a run of 13 matches without a defeat in the Premier League, stretching back to last season. A win for them in the early kick-off on Saturday, September 16 will them go top of the table with both Spurs and Man City in action later in the day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk to serve extended suspension for 'improper conduct'

<p>On Thursday (July 27), it became official that England midfielder and Liverpool star Jordan Herderson has moved to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Henderson had already shared a heartfelt post before both clubs made it official on Thursday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With this came the end of Henderson's run in the Reds, where he spent 12 years and featured in&nbsp;nearly 500 games across&nbsp;competitions, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reacted to Henderson's move and said 'it is sad, absolutely strange'.</p>

<h2><strong>'We will miss him as a man and as a player'</strong></h2>

<p>On Liverpool's official website, Klopp pointed out, "It's sad, absolutely strange, because he is the only captain I had here at Liverpool, but I think it is exciting for him as well. We will miss him, without a shadow of a doubt, that's clear - as a man and as a player. But, as I said, that's football."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-liverpools-jordan-henderson-joins-saudi-club-al-ettifaq-on-a-three-year-deal-619985">It's OFFICIAL. Liverpool's Jordan Henderson joins Saudi club Al-Ettifaq on a three-year deal</a></strong></p>

<p>Klopp further opined, "Hendo is a really good package, a really good package. There is the physical part, but there is the super-technical part. He is technically really, really good. You cannot have this amount of Premier League games, you cannot be captain of Liverpool, you cannot play in the most important games in the world if you are technically not on a super-high level - and he is. Right foot, left foot really good."</p>

<p>"Let me say, this midfield Fabinho, Hendo, Gini and then Millie, these four for three positions, I think nobody would have said it would be a successful midfield because something is lacking - but nothing was lacking because the boys were all a real package. That's what was so good and Hendo was a super-important part of that," he added.</p>

<p>It is to be noted that&nbsp;Al-Ettifaq would be paying about 12 million pounds ($15.55 million) along with&nbsp;add-ons for the former Liverpool captain Henderson, as per reports in the British media.</p>

<p>The 33-year-old, who is set to don&nbsp;the number 10 shirt in his new club, is expected to receive a whopping weekly salary of approximately 700,000 pounds, as per reports, in Al-Ettifaq. He has signed a three-year deal with the club, who finished seventh in the top-tier Saudi Pro League last season.</p>

<p>Recently, Steven Gerrard -- another Liverpool legend -- also joined Al-Ettifaq as the manager.</p>

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On Thursday (July 27), it became official that England midfielder and Liverpool star Jordan Herderson has moved to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Henderson had already shared a heartfelt post before both clubs made it official on Thursday.

On Thursday (July 27), it became official that England midfielder and Liverpool star Jordan Herderson has moved to the Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. Henderson had already shared a heartfelt post before both clubs made it official on Thursday. With this came the end of Henderson's run in the Reds, where he spent 12 years and featured in nearly 500 games across competitions, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, the Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reacted to Henderson's move and said 'it is sad, absolutely strange'. 'We will miss him as a man and as a player' On Liverpool's official website, Klopp pointed out, "It's sad, absolutely strange, because he is the only captain I had here at Liverpool, but I think it is exciting for him as well. We will miss him, without a shadow of a doubt, that's clear - as a man and as a player. But, as I said, that's football." Also read: It's OFFICIAL. Liverpool's Jordan Henderson joins Saudi club Al-Ettifaq on a three-year deal Klopp further opined, "Hendo is a really good package, a really good package. There is the physical part, but there is the super-technical part. He is technically really, really good. You cannot have this amount of Premier League games, you cannot be captain of Liverpool, you cannot play in the most important games in the world if you are technically not on a super-high level - and he is. Right foot, left foot really good." "Let me say, this midfield Fabinho, Hendo, Gini and then Millie, these four for three positions, I think nobody would have said it would be a successful midfield because something is lacking - but nothing was lacking because the boys were all a real package. That's what was so good and Hendo was a super-important part of that," he added. It is to be noted that Al-Ettifaq would be paying about 12 million pounds ($15.55 million) along with add-ons for the former Liverpool captain Henderson, as per reports in the British media. The 33-year-old, who is set to don the number 10 shirt in his new club, is expected to receive a whopping weekly salary of approximately 700,000 pounds, as per reports, in Al-Ettifaq. He has signed a three-year deal with the club, who finished seventh in the top-tier Saudi Pro League last season. Recently, Steven Gerrard -- another Liverpool legend -- also joined Al-Ettifaq as the manager. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'We will miss him': Jurgen Klopp reacts as Jordan Henderson leaves Liverpool to join Saudi club Al-Ettifaq

<p>Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has confirmed his exit from Liverpool after he posted a video on his Instagram handle on Wednesday, July 26 evening. Henderson will leave Liverpool after 12 years having joined from Sunderland in 2011 and leaves a legacy behind. The England vice-captain will reunite with former club mate and another Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard at Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq in the coming hours.</p>

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<h2><strong>Henderson confirms exit</strong></h2>

<p>"It's hard to put these last 12 years into words and it's even harder to say goodbye," Henderson wrote on Instagram.</p>

<p>"I will always be a Red. Until the day I die. Thank you for everything. You'll never walk alone."</p>

<p>An England international, Henderson has been central&nbsp;to Liverpool’s success in recent times and has seen the Merseyside club win the Champions League in 2019, the FA Cup, and the League Cup in 2022. However, Henderson’s biggest achievement was the Premier League title in 2020 when they ran away with the title despite the COVID-19 virus outbreak.</p>

<p>The talisman also led the club to the Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup win in the 2019-20 season and reached the Champions League final in 2018 and 2022, losing to Real Madrid on both occasions.</p>

<p>Al Ettifaq were in constant touch with the player and made a concrete offer for Henderson who still continues to represent England. He has scored three goals&nbsp;in 77 appearances for the national team and was part of the England team that was runners-up in the Euro 2020 (held in 2021) and World Cup semifinalists in 2018.</p>

<p>The 33-year-old’s departure continues the trend of high-profile exits from the Premier League which includes a string of stars like N’Golo Kante, Édouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and others.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-england-skipper-ben-stokes-wont-bowl-in-final-test-at-oval-619729">Ashes 2023: England skipper Ben Stokes won't bowl in final Test at Oval</a></p>

<h2><strong>Liverpool’s transfer business</strong></h2>

<p>For Liverpool, it was a win-win situation as they had secured the services of Hungarian Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig and Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton. The Reds are also keeping tabs on Roméo Lavia of Southampton as another option in the midfield having seen the exit of James Milner to Brighton.</p>

<p>Jurgen Klopp’s side will start their Premier League season away from home at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea on Sunday, August 13. The match will see the return of Mauricio Pochettino in the league, having enjoyed a successful five-year stint with Tottenham Hotspur.</p>

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Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has confirmed his exit from Liverpool after he posted a video on his Instagram handle on Wednesday, July 26 evening. Henderson will leave Liverpool after 12 years having joined from Sunderland in 2011 and leaves a legacy behind.

Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has confirmed his exit from Liverpool after he posted a video on his Instagram handle on Wednesday, July 26 evening. Henderson will leave Liverpool after 12 years having joined from Sunderland in 2011 and leaves a legacy behind. The England vice-captain will reunite with former club mate and another Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard at Saudi Pro League side Al Ettifaq in the coming hours. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jordan Henderson (@jordanhenderson) Henderson confirms exit "It's hard to put these last 12 years into words and it's even harder to say goodbye," Henderson wrote on Instagram. "I will always be a Red. Until the day I die. Thank you for everything. You'll never walk alone." An England international, Henderson has been central to Liverpool’s success in recent times and has seen the Merseyside club win the Champions League in 2019, the FA Cup, and the League Cup in 2022. However, Henderson’s biggest achievement was the Premier League title in 2020 when they ran away with the title despite the COVID-19 virus outbreak. The talisman also led the club to the Club World Cup and the UEFA Super Cup win in the 2019-20 season and reached the Champions League final in 2018 and 2022, losing to Real Madrid on both occasions. Al Ettifaq were in constant touch with the player and made a concrete offer for Henderson who still continues to represent England. He has scored three goals in 77 appearances for the national team and was part of the England team that was runners-up in the Euro 2020 (held in 2021) and World Cup semifinalists in 2018. The 33-year-old’s departure continues the trend of high-profile exits from the Premier League which includes a string of stars like N’Golo Kante, Édouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, and others. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: England skipper Ben Stokes won't bowl in final Test at Oval Liverpool’s transfer business For Liverpool, it was a win-win situation as they had secured the services of Hungarian Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig and Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton. The Reds are also keeping tabs on Roméo Lavia of Southampton as another option in the midfield having seen the exit of James Milner to Brighton. Jurgen Klopp’s side will start their Premier League season away from home at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea on Sunday, August 13. The match will see the return of Mauricio Pochettino in the league, having enjoyed a successful five-year stint with Tottenham Hotspur. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football Transfer: Jordan Henderson confirms Liverpool exit after 12 years, joins Steven Gerrard at Al Ettifaq

<p>Roberto Firmino has finally completed his transfer to Saudi Pro League as the Brazilian forward starts his new adventure after exiting Liverpool on Tuesday, July 4. Firmino, a Premier League and Champions League winner with Liverpool, was long linked with the Saudi side Al-Ahli, with contract talks underway after his contract expired at Liverpool. The striker was also linked with Real Madrid at one stage, but has now officially ended the saga surrounding his future.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">📷 | Bobby is here! 🫡 🇧🇷 🪄<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeFirmino?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeFirmino</a> <a href="https://t.co/b9uAU3cDas">pic.twitter.com/b9uAU3cDas</a></p>
— Al-Ahli Saudi Club (@ALAHLI_FCEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/ALAHLI_FCEN/status/1676347981388210178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Firmino joins Al-Ahli</strong></h2>

<p>“I always played for big teams, now I’m in Al-Ahli,” Firmino said in a video on Al-Ahli’s Twitter account as the club confirmed Firmino’s transfer.</p>

<p>The 31-year-old will be contracted with the club until 2026 and has signed a three-year deal to make his switch to the newly promoted side. Firmino is Al-Ahli’s second big signing in the transfer window with Edouard Mendy becoming the club’s first signing in June. Mendy made his switch from fellow Premier League side Chelsea as part of a mass exit.</p>

<p>Al-Ahli recently secured promotion to the Saudi Pro League and have spent big in the transfers window to keep their place in the top division. Earlier, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard also made his switch to Saudi Arabia, taking over as the manager of Al-Ettifaq on Monday. The legendary star was last in charge of Aston Villa in the Premier League and will now look to get back on track with his managerial stint.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ajit-agarkar-succeeds-chetan-sharma-as-chief-selector-of-indian-mens-team-to-lead-five-member-team-611964">Official: Ajit Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma as chief selector of Indian men's team</a></p>

<h2>Al-Ahli in search of manager</h2>

<p>On the flip side, Al-Ahli will also be in search of a new manager as they try to fill in the vacant place left by South African Pitso Mosimane. The club is expected to go big again in the market as they target a chunk of players from Europe.</p>

<p>Currently, the Saudi Pro League has already attracted top players including Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema, World Cup winner N’Golo Kante, and several others including Ruben Neves.</p>

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Roberto Firmino has finally completed his transfer to Saudi Pro League as the Brazilian forward starts his new adventure after exiting Liverpool on Tuesday, July 4.

Roberto Firmino has finally completed his transfer to Saudi Pro League as the Brazilian forward starts his new adventure after exiting Liverpool on Tuesday, July 4. Firmino, a Premier League and Champions League winner with Liverpool, was long linked with the Saudi side Al-Ahli, with contract talks underway after his contract expired at Liverpool. The striker was also linked with Real Madrid at one stage, but has now officially ended the saga surrounding his future. 📷 | Bobby is here! 🫡 🇧🇷 🪄#WelcomeFirmino pic.twitter.com/b9uAU3cDas — Al-Ahli Saudi Club (@ALAHLI_FCEN) July 4, 2023 × Firmino joins Al-Ahli “I always played for big teams, now I’m in Al-Ahli,” Firmino said in a video on Al-Ahli’s Twitter account as the club confirmed Firmino’s transfer. The 31-year-old will be contracted with the club until 2026 and has signed a three-year deal to make his switch to the newly promoted side. Firmino is Al-Ahli’s second big signing in the transfer window with Edouard Mendy becoming the club’s first signing in June. Mendy made his switch from fellow Premier League side Chelsea as part of a mass exit. Al-Ahli recently secured promotion to the Saudi Pro League and have spent big in the transfers window to keep their place in the top division. Earlier, Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard also made his switch to Saudi Arabia, taking over as the manager of Al-Ettifaq on Monday. The legendary star was last in charge of Aston Villa in the Premier League and will now look to get back on track with his managerial stint. ALSO READ | Official: Ajit Agarkar succeeds Chetan Sharma as chief selector of Indian men's team Al-Ahli in search of manager On the flip side, Al-Ahli will also be in search of a new manager as they try to fill in the vacant place left by South African Pitso Mosimane. The club is expected to go big again in the market as they target a chunk of players from Europe. Currently, the Saudi Pro League has already attracted top players including Ballon d’Or winner Karim Benzema, World Cup winner N’Golo Kante, and several others including Ruben Neves. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football Transfers: Brazilian forward Roberto Firmino joins Saudi club Al-Ahli after Liverpool exit

<p>German powerhouse and record champions Bayern Munch have completed the signing of Konrad Laimer for a four-year deal after his contract expired at RB Leipzig. Laimer, who will be a key acquisition for the Bavarians, will boss the midfield for the record German champions after becoming their first summer signing. Laimer’s contract at Leipzig came to an end after the 2022-23 season and he was available for a free transfer.</p>

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Introducing new signing Konrad Laimer ⤵️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiaSanMia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiaSanMia</a></p>
— FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBayernEN/status/1667087832538595330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Bayern secure Laimer’s signing</strong></h2>

<p>"I'm in the right place here," Laimer said in a statement Bayern released on Friday.</p>

<p>"It's a dream come true for me. FC Bayern is one of the biggest clubs in the world."</p>

<p>"We are delighted to have signed Konrad Laimer... together we will hopefully now celebrate many more great victories and titles,” Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen said.</p>

<p>The midfielder won back-to-back DFB Pokal titles with Leipzig and was part of the side that reached the semifinals of the Champions League in 2020. He was one of the main men in former manager Julian Nagelsmann’s squad during his time at Leipzig. Laimer’s contract will run until 2027 and will be expected to compete against Leon Goretzka and other midfielders.</p>

<p>The 26-year-old played 190 games for Leipzig, scoring 15 goals and assisting 19 more in all competitions. He was linked with the German giants for months and was a long-term target before Nagelsmann’s departure from the club in March.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-ricky-ponting-explains-where-india-did-go-wrong-with-their-bowling-plans-in-first-innings-602434">WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings</a></p>

<h2><strong>Bayern bolster ranks</strong></h2>

<p>Having become Bayern’s first signing of the summer, Bayern will look to bolster their ranks and will look to challenge for the treble. In the 2022-23 season, they won the Bundesliga on the final day of the season while they faced elimination from the Champions League in the quarterfinal. Bayer were eliminated in the quarterfinal of the DFB Pokal at the hands of Freiburg while all this happened after Thomas Tuchel took over from Nagelsmann in March.</p>

<p>Laimer will join a star-studded Bayern midfield which includes Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka and fellow Austrian Marcel Sabitzer.</p>

<p>Sabitzer, who will return to Bayern after spending the second half of the season on loan at Manchester United, also joined Munich from RB Leipzig.</p>

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German powerhouse and record champions Bayern Munch have completed the signing of Konrad Laimer for a four-year deal after his contract expired at RB Leipzig. Laimer, who will be a key acquisition for the Bavarians, will boss the midfield for the record German champions after becoming their first summer signing.

German powerhouse and record champions Bayern Munch have completed the signing of Konrad Laimer for a four-year deal after his contract expired at RB Leipzig. Laimer, who will be a key acquisition for the Bavarians, will boss the midfield for the record German champions after becoming their first summer signing. Laimer’s contract at Leipzig came to an end after the 2022-23 season and he was available for a free transfer. 🇦🇹👋 Introducing new signing Konrad Laimer ⤵️#MiaSanMia — FC Bayern Munich (@FCBayernEN) June 9, 2023 × Bayern secure Laimer’s signing "I'm in the right place here," Laimer said in a statement Bayern released on Friday. "It's a dream come true for me. FC Bayern is one of the biggest clubs in the world." "We are delighted to have signed Konrad Laimer... together we will hopefully now celebrate many more great victories and titles,” Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen said. The midfielder won back-to-back DFB Pokal titles with Leipzig and was part of the side that reached the semifinals of the Champions League in 2020. He was one of the main men in former manager Julian Nagelsmann’s squad during his time at Leipzig. Laimer’s contract will run until 2027 and will be expected to compete against Leon Goretzka and other midfielders. The 26-year-old played 190 games for Leipzig, scoring 15 goals and assisting 19 more in all competitions. He was linked with the German giants for months and was a long-term target before Nagelsmann’s departure from the club in March. ALSO READ | WTC Final: Ricky Ponting explains where India went wrong with their bowling plan in first innings Bayern bolster ranks Having become Bayern’s first signing of the summer, Bayern will look to bolster their ranks and will look to challenge for the treble. In the 2022-23 season, they won the Bundesliga on the final day of the season while they faced elimination from the Champions League in the quarterfinal. Bayer were eliminated in the quarterfinal of the DFB Pokal at the hands of Freiburg while all this happened after Thomas Tuchel took over from Nagelsmann in March. Laimer will join a star-studded Bayern midfield which includes Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka and fellow Austrian Marcel Sabitzer. Sabitzer, who will return to Bayern after spending the second half of the season on loan at Manchester United, also joined Munich from RB Leipzig. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bundesliga: Bayern Munich sign Austria midfielder Konrad Laimer after Leipzig exit

<p>Liverpool signed Argentine World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton on Thursday for a fee that could rise to a reported £55 million ($69 million).</p>

<p>The 24-year-old is the first piece in a midfield rebuild for Liverpool, who finished a disappointing fifth in the Premier League.</p>

<p>"It feels amazing," said Mac Allister, who is understood to have signed a five-year deal at Anfield. "It's a dream come true. It's amazing to be here and I can't wait to get started.</p>

<p>"I wanted to be in from the first day of pre-season, so it's good that everything is done. I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates.</p>

<p>"It was a fantastic year for me -– World Cup, what we achieved with Brighton -– but now it's time to think about Liverpool and try to be a better player and a better human being every day."</p>

<p>Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is seeking to bolster his midfield options after the departures of James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.</p>

<p>The club were priced out of a move for England teenage star Jude Bellingham, who&nbsp;is set to join Real Madrid&nbsp;after the clubs agreed a fee of 103 million euros ($110 million).</p>

<p>Liverpool, who struggled last term after nearly completing an unprecedented quadruple in 2021/22, have been criticised for failing to reinforce their ageing midfield over recent transfer windows.</p>

<p>Klopp is excited about the arrival of Mac Allister, who reportedly cost an initial fee of £35 million.</p>

<p>Mac Allister will wear the number 10 shirt worn with distinction by past Liverpool stars Sadio Mane, John Barnes and Michael Owen.</p>

<p>"We are adding a very talented, very smart, very technically skilled boy to our squad and this is super news, really it is," said the German.</p>

<p>"I do not think the football world needs me to say too much about Alexis's qualities because they are already pretty well known.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-it-had-been-a-question-of-money-i-would-have-gone-to-saudi-arabia-lionel-messi-on-joining-inter-miami-601947">'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami</a></p>

<p>"But it is clear that he is someone who can play in a number of positions in the midfield and is an all-rounder, I would say. He is calm and composed and someone with proper game intelligence."</p>

<p>Mac Allister, who made 112 appearances for Brighton, has played 16 times for Argentina, including in the World Cup final victory against France in December.</p>

<p>"Since I won the World Cup, I said that I want to win more trophies and I think that this club will help me to do that," he said.</p>

<p>"That's the aim and when you are in a big club like this one you have to win trophies. So, that's what I want."</p>

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Liverpool signed Argentine World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton on Thursday for a fee that could rise to a reported £55 million ($69 million). The 24-year-old is the first piece in a midfield rebuild for Liverpool, who finished a disappointing fifth in the Premier League.

Liverpool signed Argentine World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton on Thursday for a fee that could rise to a reported £55 million ($69 million). The 24-year-old is the first piece in a midfield rebuild for Liverpool, who finished a disappointing fifth in the Premier League. "It feels amazing," said Mac Allister, who is understood to have signed a five-year deal at Anfield. "It's a dream come true. It's amazing to be here and I can't wait to get started. "I wanted to be in from the first day of pre-season, so it's good that everything is done. I'm looking forward to meeting my teammates. "It was a fantastic year for me -– World Cup, what we achieved with Brighton -– but now it's time to think about Liverpool and try to be a better player and a better human being every day." Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is seeking to bolster his midfield options after the departures of James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. The club were priced out of a move for England teenage star Jude Bellingham, who is set to join Real Madrid after the clubs agreed a fee of 103 million euros ($110 million). Liverpool, who struggled last term after nearly completing an unprecedented quadruple in 2021/22, have been criticised for failing to reinforce their ageing midfield over recent transfer windows. Klopp is excited about the arrival of Mac Allister, who reportedly cost an initial fee of £35 million. Mac Allister will wear the number 10 shirt worn with distinction by past Liverpool stars Sadio Mane, John Barnes and Michael Owen. "We are adding a very talented, very smart, very technically skilled boy to our squad and this is super news, really it is," said the German. "I do not think the football world needs me to say too much about Alexis's qualities because they are already pretty well known. ALSO READ | 'If it had been a question of money, I would have gone to Saudi Arabia' - Lionel Messi on joining Inter Miami "But it is clear that he is someone who can play in a number of positions in the midfield and is an all-rounder, I would say. He is calm and composed and someone with proper game intelligence." Mac Allister, who made 112 appearances for Brighton, has played 16 times for Argentina, including in the World Cup final victory against France in December. "Since I won the World Cup, I said that I want to win more trophies and I think that this club will help me to do that," he said. "That's the aim and when you are in a big club like this one you have to win trophies. So, that's what I want." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Liverpool sign Argentine World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister

Football - List of teams with most Premier League Titles

<p>Manchester United and Newcastle are on the brink of qualifying for next season's Champions League after Liverpool's 1-1 draw against Aston Villa, while Everton remain in relegation danger despite their dramatic 1-1 draw at Wolves on Saturday. United's 1-0 victory at Bournemouth, combined with Liverpool's failure to beat Villa, left Erik ten Hag's men and Newcastle within touching distance of ensuring Premier League top four finishes.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Liverpool's winning run comes to an end ⛔️<br />
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVAVL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVAVL</a> <a href="https://t.co/3BA5pWsi9w">pic.twitter.com/3BA5pWsi9w</a></p>
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<h2><strong>Man Utd, Newcastle on top four brink</strong></h2>

<p>Fourth-placed United and Newcastle, in third, are both three points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool, who have only one game left. Newcastle can seal their spot with a draw or win against Leicester on Monday or Chelsea on May 28. United take their turn at securing the lucrative top four place against Chelsea on Thursday and Fulham next weekend.</p>

<p>Liverpool's final game of the season is against relegated Southampton, but although they have a superior goal difference to United if they finish level on points, they are likely to have to settle for a place in the Europa League. At the Vitality Stadium, United took the lead in the ninth minute when Casemiro spun to meet Christian Eriksen's cross with an acrobatic bicycle kick from close-range.</p>

<p>United were unbeaten in their previous 134 league matches when leading at half-time and that remarkable sequence continued as they held firm after the interval. At Anfield, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was watching from the stands as he served a touchline ban following his recent rant about referee Paul Tierney. Villa wasted a 22nd-minute penalty when Ollie Watkins fired wide after the striker was brought down by Ibrahima Konate. Despite Watkins' miss, Unai Emery's team went ahead in the 27th minute through Jacob Ramsey's volley from Douglas Luiz's cross.</p>

<p>Roberto Firmino and James Milner, set to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, came on for their Anfield farewells in the closing stages. And it was Brazilian forward Firmino who rescued a point with his close-range finish in stoppage-time.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forget-retiring-this-season-husseys-latest-prediction-about-dhoni-could-see-him-playing-for-next-5-years-594379">Forget retiring this season, Hussey's latest prediction about Dhoni could see him playing for next 5 years</a></p>

<h2><strong>Everton drama</strong></h2>

<p>Yerry Mina's last-gasp equaliser boosted Everton's hopes of avoiding playing in the second tier for the first time since 1954.</p>

<p>Sean Dyche's men fell behind after 34 minutes when Adama Traore's shot was pushed out to Hwang Hee-chan, who netted from close-range.</p>

<p>Mina bundled in Everton's leveller nine minutes into stoppage-time to leave the fourth bottom Toffees two points above the relegation zone.</p>

<p>Third bottom Leeds would go above Everton with a win at West Ham on Sunday, while second bottom Leicester would also leapfrog Dyche's team if they beat Newcastle on Monday.</p>

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Manchester United and Newcastle are on the brink of qualifying for next season's Champions League after Liverpool's 1-1 draw against Aston Villa, while Everton remain in relegation danger despite their dramatic 1-1 draw at Wolves on Saturday.

Manchester United and Newcastle are on the brink of qualifying for next season's Champions League after Liverpool's 1-1 draw against Aston Villa, while Everton remain in relegation danger despite their dramatic 1-1 draw at Wolves on Saturday. United's 1-0 victory at Bournemouth, combined with Liverpool's failure to beat Villa, left Erik ten Hag's men and Newcastle within touching distance of ensuring Premier League top four finishes. Liverpool's winning run comes to an end ⛔️ #LIVAVL pic.twitter.com/3BA5pWsi9w — Premier League (@premierleague) May 20, 2023 × Man Utd, Newcastle on top four brink Fourth-placed United and Newcastle, in third, are both three points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool, who have only one game left. Newcastle can seal their spot with a draw or win against Leicester on Monday or Chelsea on May 28. United take their turn at securing the lucrative top four place against Chelsea on Thursday and Fulham next weekend. Liverpool's final game of the season is against relegated Southampton, but although they have a superior goal difference to United if they finish level on points, they are likely to have to settle for a place in the Europa League. At the Vitality Stadium, United took the lead in the ninth minute when Casemiro spun to meet Christian Eriksen's cross with an acrobatic bicycle kick from close-range. United were unbeaten in their previous 134 league matches when leading at half-time and that remarkable sequence continued as they held firm after the interval. At Anfield, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was watching from the stands as he served a touchline ban following his recent rant about referee Paul Tierney. Villa wasted a 22nd-minute penalty when Ollie Watkins fired wide after the striker was brought down by Ibrahima Konate. Despite Watkins' miss, Unai Emery's team went ahead in the 27th minute through Jacob Ramsey's volley from Douglas Luiz's cross. Roberto Firmino and James Milner, set to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, came on for their Anfield farewells in the closing stages. And it was Brazilian forward Firmino who rescued a point with his close-range finish in stoppage-time. ALSO READ | Forget retiring this season, Hussey's latest prediction about Dhoni could see him playing for next 5 years Everton drama Yerry Mina's last-gasp equaliser boosted Everton's hopes of avoiding playing in the second tier for the first time since 1954. Sean Dyche's men fell behind after 34 minutes when Adama Traore's shot was pushed out to Hwang Hee-chan, who netted from close-range. Mina bundled in Everton's leveller nine minutes into stoppage-time to leave the fourth bottom Toffees two points above the relegation zone. Third bottom Leeds would go above Everton with a win at West Ham on Sunday, while second bottom Leicester would also leapfrog Dyche's team if they beat Newcastle on Monday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Man Utd, Newcastle on brink of sealing top four places after Liverpool draw

<p>Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been given a two-match touchline ban after questioning the integrity of referee Paul Tierney following the Reds' win over Tottenham Hotspur in April. Klopp landed himself in trouble with the authorities after blasting Tierney following the explosive end to Liverpool's 4-3 win at Anfield.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened vs Spurs?</strong></h2>

<p>The German celebrated Diogo Jota's stoppage-time winner, which came after Liverpool had blown a three-goal lead, by charging down the touchline to celebrate wildly in front of fourth official John Brooks.</p>

<p>Klopp was booked but later claimed what Tierney said to him was "not OK", claiming he did not know what the official "has against us".</p>

<p>The Football Association -- which also fined Klopp £75,000 ($93,000, 86,000 euros) -- said Thursday the first game of the ban would be served immediately, with Liverpool facing Aston Villa on Saturday, while the second would be suspended pending the manager's future conduct.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-faf-du-plessis-praises-passionate-kohli-says-playing-with-him-is-better-than-playing-against-him-593606">IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team</a></p>

<h2><strong>What FA statement read?</strong></h2>

<p>An FA statement added Klopp had admitted his comments regarding Tierney in post-match media interviews "constitute improper conduct as they imply bias, question the integrity of the referee, are personal, offensive, and bring the game into disrepute".</p>

<p>Klopp told reporters after the game: "How they can give a foul on Mohamed Salah (just before Spurs' third goal)? We have our history with Tierney. I really don’t know what he has against us.</p>

<p>"He has said there is no problems but that cannot be true. How he looks at me, I don’t understand it. My celebration was unnecessary, which is fair, but what he said to me when he gave me the yellow card is not OK."</p>

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Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been given a two-match touchline ban after questioning the integrity of referee Paul Tierney following the Reds' win over Tottenham Hotspur in April.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been given a two-match touchline ban after questioning the integrity of referee Paul Tierney following the Reds' win over Tottenham Hotspur in April. Klopp landed himself in trouble with the authorities after blasting Tierney following the explosive end to Liverpool's 4-3 win at Anfield. What happened vs Spurs? The German celebrated Diogo Jota's stoppage-time winner, which came after Liverpool had blown a three-goal lead, by charging down the touchline to celebrate wildly in front of fourth official John Brooks. Klopp was booked but later claimed what Tierney said to him was "not OK", claiming he did not know what the official "has against us". The Football Association -- which also fined Klopp £75,000 ($93,000, 86,000 euros) -- said Thursday the first game of the ban would be served immediately, with Liverpool facing Aston Villa on Saturday, while the second would be suspended pending the manager's future conduct. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Faf du Plessis praises passionate Kohli, says playing with him is better than being in opposite team What FA statement read? An FA statement added Klopp had admitted his comments regarding Tierney in post-match media interviews "constitute improper conduct as they imply bias, question the integrity of the referee, are personal, offensive, and bring the game into disrepute". Klopp told reporters after the game: "How they can give a foul on Mohamed Salah (just before Spurs' third goal)? We have our history with Tierney. I really don’t know what he has against us. "He has said there is no problems but that cannot be true. How he looks at me, I don’t understand it. My celebration was unnecessary, which is fair, but what he said to me when he gave me the yellow card is not OK." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Jurgen Klopp given two-match touchline ban for referee rant

<p>Liverpool are an attractive prospect for players in the transfer market even if they are not assured of a place in the Champions League next season, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. Fifth-placed Liverpool are making a late charge for the top-four in the Premier League and a berth in Europe's lucrative competition, with Klopp's team only a point behind Manchester United having played a game more.</p>

<p>"If I'm allowed to talk to a player, we cannot say in the moment if we have Champions League football. So, if we're already talking, then it is already clear that he already knows about that situation," Klopp told reporters. "It's obvious we have to be part of the Champions League, fight for trophies... If you want to be part of that, you're more than welcome. We cannot guarantee Champions League football."</p>

<p>"But all the rest is the same as before: a fantastic club with a really good football team — and a better one hopefully next year. It's really that simple. Still Liverpool. We're really attractive to a lot of players."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-semifinal-as-roma-beat-bayer-leverkusen-1-0-in-tight-first-leg-591527">Europa League Semifinal: AS Roma beat Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 in tight first leg</a></p>

<p>Liverpool have three league games left this season, starting with Monday's trip to Leicester City.</p>

<p>Leicester produced one of the greatest sporting achievements when they won the league in 2015-16 after starting the campaign as 5,000-1 outsiders, but they are fighting for survival this season, sitting two points adrift of the safety zone.</p>

<p>Klopp expects Monday's game to be a testing encounter for Liverpool.</p>

<p>"I've told the boys already, this is now the real fight. A home game for Leicester, they need all the points they can get. It will be a super difficult and super intense game," Klopp said, adding that Roberto Firmino and Naby Keita are still absent through injury.</p>

<p>Having won their last six league games to jump three spots to fifth, Klopp said his team are moving in the right direction.</p>

<p>"This period is super important because it gives us all a massive hint on how it (the future) could look," Klopp said. "We all know we are in the early stages, we have to improve, to make things more natural and more clear for the boys of what we want exactly."<br />
<br />
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Liverpool are an attractive prospect for players in the transfer market even if they are not assured of a place in the Champions League next season, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday.

Liverpool are an attractive prospect for players in the transfer market even if they are not assured of a place in the Champions League next season, manager Juergen Klopp said on Friday. Fifth-placed Liverpool are making a late charge for the top-four in the Premier League and a berth in Europe's lucrative competition, with Klopp's team only a point behind Manchester United having played a game more. "If I'm allowed to talk to a player, we cannot say in the moment if we have Champions League football. So, if we're already talking, then it is already clear that he already knows about that situation," Klopp told reporters. "It's obvious we have to be part of the Champions League, fight for trophies... If you want to be part of that, you're more than welcome. We cannot guarantee Champions League football." "But all the rest is the same as before: a fantastic club with a really good football team — and a better one hopefully next year. It's really that simple. Still Liverpool. We're really attractive to a lot of players." ALSO READ: Europa League Semifinal: AS Roma beat Bayer Leverkusen 1-0 in tight first leg Liverpool have three league games left this season, starting with Monday's trip to Leicester City. Leicester produced one of the greatest sporting achievements when they won the league in 2015-16 after starting the campaign as 5,000-1 outsiders, but they are fighting for survival this season, sitting two points adrift of the safety zone. Klopp expects Monday's game to be a testing encounter for Liverpool. "I've told the boys already, this is now the real fight. A home game for Leicester, they need all the points they can get. It will be a super difficult and super intense game," Klopp said, adding that Roberto Firmino and Naby Keita are still absent through injury. Having won their last six league games to jump three spots to fifth, Klopp said his team are moving in the right direction. "This period is super important because it gives us all a massive hint on how it (the future) could look," Klopp said. "We all know we are in the early stages, we have to improve, to make things more natural and more clear for the boys of what we want exactly." WATCH WION LIVE HERE

We will attract players even without Champions League, says Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp

<p>Robbie Fowler needed 11 seasons in two spells with Liverpool to become sixth among the club's all-time scorers but Mohamed Salah equalled his 183 goals in fewer than six seasons when he struck the winner against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Saturday.</p>

<p>The Egyptian striker, 30, surpassed Fowler to become Liverpool's top scorer in the Premier League with 134 goals last month, and he is now also the player with the most left-footed goals in the history of the league, with 108.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kiptum-scripts-history-by-winning-london-marathon-in-second-fastest-time-sifan-hassan-also-claims-top-prize-585429">Kiptum scripts history by winning London Marathon in second-fastest time, Sifan Hassan also claims top prize</a></p>

<p>Salah, and Fowler, are three goals behind Steven Gerrard, the fifth-highest scorer in Liverpool's history, while Ian Rush leads the list with 346.</p>

<p>"The sixth top scorer for Liverpool? It’s good to achieve this number in less than six years. Fowler is a legend for the club, so I’m proud to be equal with him after six seasons. I hope to score more goals and break more numbers," Salah told beIN Sports.</p>

<p>Although the three-time Premier League top scorer is not having his best season, he has scored 16 goals in the league, behind only Erling Haaland of Manchester City (32), Harry Kane of Tottenham (23) and Brentford's Ivan Toney (19).</p>

<p>Salah said seventh-placed Liverpool had struggled at the start of the 3-2 victory over Forest, who are battling to avoid relegation.</p>

<p>"In the first 15 or 20 minutes, we faced difficulty in the game. Thank God, we were able to win and get a positive result... Our focus wasn’t on who scores, the important thing is the good result.</p>

<p>"For the teams fighting to avoid relegation, these are life-or-death games and all games are difficult,” he added.</p>

<p>With seven games remaining, Liverpool are six points away from the top four and still aspiring to qualify for the European competitions next season.</p>


Robbie Fowler needed 11 seasons in two spells with Liverpool to become sixth among the club's all-time scorers but Mohamed Salah equalled his 183 goals in fewer than six seasons when he struck the winner against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Saturday.

Robbie Fowler needed 11 seasons in two spells with Liverpool to become sixth among the club's all-time scorers but Mohamed Salah equalled his 183 goals in fewer than six seasons when he struck the winner against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Saturday. The Egyptian striker, 30, surpassed Fowler to become Liverpool's top scorer in the Premier League with 134 goals last month, and he is now also the player with the most left-footed goals in the history of the league, with 108. ALSO READ: Kiptum scripts history by winning London Marathon in second-fastest time, Sifan Hassan also claims top prize Salah, and Fowler, are three goals behind Steven Gerrard, the fifth-highest scorer in Liverpool's history, while Ian Rush leads the list with 346. "The sixth top scorer for Liverpool? It’s good to achieve this number in less than six years. Fowler is a legend for the club, so I’m proud to be equal with him after six seasons. I hope to score more goals and break more numbers," Salah told beIN Sports. Although the three-time Premier League top scorer is not having his best season, he has scored 16 goals in the league, behind only Erling Haaland of Manchester City (32), Harry Kane of Tottenham (23) and Brentford's Ivan Toney (19). Salah said seventh-placed Liverpool had struggled at the start of the 3-2 victory over Forest, who are battling to avoid relegation. "In the first 15 or 20 minutes, we faced difficulty in the game. Thank God, we were able to win and get a positive result... Our focus wasn’t on who scores, the important thing is the good result. "For the teams fighting to avoid relegation, these are life-or-death games and all games are difficult,” he added. With seven games remaining, Liverpool are six points away from the top four and still aspiring to qualify for the European competitions next season.

Mohamed Salah happy to surpass Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler to become club's all-time top goal scorer

<p>Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp remains confident Darwin Nunez will provide "long-term" value for the Reds despite being relegated to the bench in recent weeks. A failure to reinforce Klopp's midfield last summer has been criticised as Liverpool instead plunged the vast majority of their transfer budget into a £66 million ($82 million) move for Nunez, that could rise to £88 million with add-ons.</p>

<p>The Uruguayan has scored 15 goals since arriving from Benfica but has fallen down the pecking order since the arrival of Cody Gakpo in January and the return to fitness of Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nunez came off the bench to net as Liverpool smashed Leeds 6-1 on Monday.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-captain-leah-williamson-set-to-miss-womens-world-cup-after-picking-up-knee-injury-584979">England captain Leah Williamson set to miss Women's World Cup after picking up knee injury</a></p>

<p>But it has often been a far more difficult season for Klopp's men as they sit eighth in the Premier League, nine points adrift of the top four.</p>

<p>"It's not helpful to go through a debut season when it's difficult for the whole team. How can a striker shine when the whole team is struggling?" Klopp said at his pre-match press conference ahead of Nottingham Forest's visit to Anfield on Saturday. "He was injured in some moments, suspended in other moments. That's not a problem at all. This is a long-term project.</p>

<p>"I understand that he wants to play desperately from the beginning but we have to find a way that really works for us again and then fit in the players we can use with the specific strengths.</p>

<p>"I am completely fine with the situation. I understand that Darwin isn't always fine. He doesn't smile in my face when he realises he won't start and says: 'Thank you boss'.</p>

<p>"But when you have five or six players available up front you have to make decisions and that's good."</p>

<p>Trent Alexander-Arnold's form has been another reason for Liverpool's slide down the table this season, but the right-back has shone recently from a new role as he has pushed into midfield in possession.</p>

<p>Alexander-Arnold has provided three assists in the past two games, but Klopp said it was still a work in progress.</p>

<p>"This slightly advanced role suits him in the moment really well. It's a challenge for everyone else to cover the spaces when we lose the ball theoretically but with him there we didn't lose that many balls, which was helpful as well," added Klopp. "It is now not the solution for all the football problems we had this year but he has potential to play that position.</p>

<p>"But it's not written in stone, why should we? We will see where it leads to."</p>


Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp remains confident Darwin Nunez will provide "long-term" value for the Reds despite being relegated to the bench in recent weeks. A failure to reinforce Klopp's midfield last summer has been criticised as Liverpool instead plunged the vast majority of their transfer budget into a £66 million ($82 million) move for Nunez, that could rise to £88 million with add-ons.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp remains confident Darwin Nunez will provide "long-term" value for the Reds despite being relegated to the bench in recent weeks. A failure to reinforce Klopp's midfield last summer has been criticised as Liverpool instead plunged the vast majority of their transfer budget into a £66 million ($82 million) move for Nunez, that could rise to £88 million with add-ons. The Uruguayan has scored 15 goals since arriving from Benfica but has fallen down the pecking order since the arrival of Cody Gakpo in January and the return to fitness of Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz. Nunez came off the bench to net as Liverpool smashed Leeds 6-1 on Monday. ALSO READ: England captain Leah Williamson set to miss Women's World Cup after picking up knee injury But it has often been a far more difficult season for Klopp's men as they sit eighth in the Premier League, nine points adrift of the top four. "It's not helpful to go through a debut season when it's difficult for the whole team. How can a striker shine when the whole team is struggling?" Klopp said at his pre-match press conference ahead of Nottingham Forest's visit to Anfield on Saturday. "He was injured in some moments, suspended in other moments. That's not a problem at all. This is a long-term project. "I understand that he wants to play desperately from the beginning but we have to find a way that really works for us again and then fit in the players we can use with the specific strengths. "I am completely fine with the situation. I understand that Darwin isn't always fine. He doesn't smile in my face when he realises he won't start and says: 'Thank you boss'. "But when you have five or six players available up front you have to make decisions and that's good." Trent Alexander-Arnold's form has been another reason for Liverpool's slide down the table this season, but the right-back has shone recently from a new role as he has pushed into midfield in possession. Alexander-Arnold has provided three assists in the past two games, but Klopp said it was still a work in progress. "This slightly advanced role suits him in the moment really well. It's a challenge for everyone else to cover the spaces when we lose the ball theoretically but with him there we didn't lose that many balls, which was helpful as well," added Klopp. "It is now not the solution for all the football problems we had this year but he has potential to play that position. "But it's not written in stone, why should we? We will see where it leads to."

Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp believes in underperforming Darwin Nunez, backs him to be a future star at Anfield

<p>Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he was undeterred by the club's poor record at Anfield, targeting a win against Liverpool on Sunday that would keep them on course to win the Premier League title.</p>

<p>Arteta's men lead Manchester City by eight points at the top of the table ahead of the weekend fixtures, with Pep Guardiola's team in action against bottom-of-the-table Southampton on Saturday.</p>

<p>The Gunners have not won a league game at Anfield since Arteta played in a 2-0 win in 2012.</p>

<p>Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool have won the past six league meetings between the sides at home by a combined score of 22-4.</p>

<p>But Liverpool are languishing in eighth place in the table, 29 points behind the Gunners, and Arsenal have already ended a long wait to win away at Tottenham this season.</p>

<p>"We have to enjoy it," Arteta said at his pre-match press conference. "We really need to embrace the moment and go for it.</p>

<p>"The team is really full of enthusiasm and positivity and we know we have a big challenge but a big opportunity to go to Anfield and do something we haven't done for many years. That is what is driving the team in the last few days.</p>

<p>"We know what we have to do. We've played in the toughest places."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-match-10-lucknow-super-giants-vs-sunrisers-hyderabad-match-preview-and-result-prediction-579981">IPL 2023, Match 10, Lucknow Super Giants vs SunRisers Hyderabad - Match preview and result prediction</a></p>

<p>Gabriel Jesus' double in a 4-1 win over Leeds last week -- his first league start since November -- has given Arteta options up front.</p>

<p>Bukayo Saka is set to return after missing the match due to illness, meaning only two of Jesus and the in-form Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are likely to start.</p>

<p>"It's much better to have that problem because at the moment they are all looking really good," added Arteta.</p>

<p>"It depends on the moment, what we want to do, the quality we are seeking and the relationships that we want on certain days.</p>

<p>"Then obviously you can make five changes (during the game), so you have the ability to change the game with those players, which is great for us."</p>

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he was undeterred by the club's poor record at Anfield, targeting a win against Liverpool on Sunday that would keep them on course to win the Premier League title.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said he was undeterred by the club's poor record at Anfield, targeting a win against Liverpool on Sunday that would keep them on course to win the Premier League title. Arteta's men lead Manchester City by eight points at the top of the table ahead of the weekend fixtures, with Pep Guardiola's team in action against bottom-of-the-table Southampton on Saturday. The Gunners have not won a league game at Anfield since Arteta played in a 2-0 win in 2012. Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool have won the past six league meetings between the sides at home by a combined score of 22-4. But Liverpool are languishing in eighth place in the table, 29 points behind the Gunners, and Arsenal have already ended a long wait to win away at Tottenham this season. "We have to enjoy it," Arteta said at his pre-match press conference. "We really need to embrace the moment and go for it. "The team is really full of enthusiasm and positivity and we know we have a big challenge but a big opportunity to go to Anfield and do something we haven't done for many years. That is what is driving the team in the last few days. "We know what we have to do. We've played in the toughest places." ALSO READ | IPL 2023, Match 10, Lucknow Super Giants vs SunRisers Hyderabad - Match preview and result prediction Gabriel Jesus' double in a 4-1 win over Leeds last week -- his first league start since November -- has given Arteta options up front. Bukayo Saka is set to return after missing the match due to illness, meaning only two of Jesus and the in-form Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard are likely to start. "It's much better to have that problem because at the moment they are all looking really good," added Arteta. "It depends on the moment, what we want to do, the quality we are seeking and the relationships that we want on certain days. "Then obviously you can make five changes (during the game), so you have the ability to change the game with those players, which is great for us." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Mikel Arteta's Arsenal ready for final push in title race, look to end winless run at Anfield

<p>Manchester City coped without the injured Erling Haaland to keep the Premier League title race alive by coming from behind to thrash Liverpool 4-1 on Saturday. Goals from Julian Alvarez, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Jack Grealish moved the defending champions back to within five points of Arsenal at the top of the table.</p>

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<p>City and Liverpool have finished as the top two in four of the past five Premier League seasons, but the Reds are struggling just to qualify for the Champions League after a dreadful campaign and were given another lesson in the gap they have to bridge be back challenging next season. A chastening defeat leaves Jurgen Klopp's men still seven points adrift of the top four down in sixth.</p>

<p>A groin injury meant Haaland was watching on from the stands alongside his father and former City midfielder Alfie Haaland. Despite the absence of their 42-goal striker, Pep Guardiola's men made a positive start as Alisson Becker was forced into saves from Gundogan and Rodri before Riyad Mahrez fired a free-kick inches wide. But City were caught out on the counter-attack as Liverpool went in front on 17 minutes.</p>

<p>The home fans were screaming for offside as Diogo Jota broke in behind the City defence before teeing up Mohamed Salah to slot home his 23rd goal of the season. A VAR review showed Manuel Akanji had played the Portuguese forward onside.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2023-blow-to-gujarat-titans-as-kane-williamson-ruled-out-for-whole-season-due-to-knee-injury-reports-577938">IPL 2023: Blow to Gujarat Titans as Kane Williamson ruled out for whole season due to knee injury - Reports</a></p>

<p>Guardiola was on his knees when Mahrez blasted over another great chance inches over. But he did not have to wait long for his side to show their quality even shorn of Haaland. De Bruyne, Mahrez and Grealish combined to open up the Liverpool defence and Alvarez was left with the simple task of slotting in his 13th goal of the season despite spending most of the campaign as Haaland's deputy.</p>

<p>It took just 53 seconds of the second half for City to edge in front thanks to another scintillating team move. Alvarez was the creator this time as his cross-field pass freed Mahrez to race into acres of space behind the Liverpool defence. The Algerian's cross was perfectly weighted to cut out Alisson for De Bruyne to tap into an unguarded net.</p>

<p>If City's first two goals were the fruit of collective brilliance, Liverpool's defending for the third summed up a miserable season for Klopp's men. Alvarez was afforded an incredible amount of time inside the box by Fabinho to pick out a shot and, when his effort was blocked by Trent Alexander-Arnold, Gundogan also had the space to take a touch before firing into the top corner.</p>

<p>Liverpool have now conceded three or more goals in nine games this season and the punishment did not end there for the visitors. Grealish was the standout individual on the day and rounded off arguably his best performance as a City player with the fourth goal.</p>

<p>City's movement off the ball was again too good for a cumbersome Liverpool defence as Grealish and De Bruyne exchanged a one-two before the Premier League's most expensive player of all time side-footed into the far corner.</p>

<p>Arsenal, who face Leeds later on Saturday, maintain the upper hand in the title race. But City could be coming to the boil at just the right time after scoring 17 goals in their last three games and with Arsenal still to visit the Etihad later this month.</p>

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Manchester City coped without the injured Erling Haaland to keep the Premier League title race alive by coming from behind to thrash Liverpool 4-1 on Saturday. Goals from Julian Alvarez, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Jack Grealish moved the defending champions back to within five points of Arsenal at the top of the table.

Manchester City coped without the injured Erling Haaland to keep the Premier League title race alive by coming from behind to thrash Liverpool 4-1 on Saturday. Goals from Julian Alvarez, Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan and Jack Grealish moved the defending champions back to within five points of Arsenal at the top of the table. FULL-TIME | It's good to be back! 🙌 🔵 4-1 🔴 #ManCity pic.twitter.com/L742pgPegf — Manchester City (@ManCity) April 1, 2023 × City and Liverpool have finished as the top two in four of the past five Premier League seasons, but the Reds are struggling just to qualify for the Champions League after a dreadful campaign and were given another lesson in the gap they have to bridge be back challenging next season. A chastening defeat leaves Jurgen Klopp's men still seven points adrift of the top four down in sixth. A groin injury meant Haaland was watching on from the stands alongside his father and former City midfielder Alfie Haaland. Despite the absence of their 42-goal striker, Pep Guardiola's men made a positive start as Alisson Becker was forced into saves from Gundogan and Rodri before Riyad Mahrez fired a free-kick inches wide. But City were caught out on the counter-attack as Liverpool went in front on 17 minutes. The home fans were screaming for offside as Diogo Jota broke in behind the City defence before teeing up Mohamed Salah to slot home his 23rd goal of the season. A VAR review showed Manuel Akanji had played the Portuguese forward onside. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Blow to Gujarat Titans as Kane Williamson ruled out for whole season due to knee injury - Reports Guardiola was on his knees when Mahrez blasted over another great chance inches over. But he did not have to wait long for his side to show their quality even shorn of Haaland. De Bruyne, Mahrez and Grealish combined to open up the Liverpool defence and Alvarez was left with the simple task of slotting in his 13th goal of the season despite spending most of the campaign as Haaland's deputy. It took just 53 seconds of the second half for City to edge in front thanks to another scintillating team move. Alvarez was the creator this time as his cross-field pass freed Mahrez to race into acres of space behind the Liverpool defence. The Algerian's cross was perfectly weighted to cut out Alisson for De Bruyne to tap into an unguarded net. If City's first two goals were the fruit of collective brilliance, Liverpool's defending for the third summed up a miserable season for Klopp's men. Alvarez was afforded an incredible amount of time inside the box by Fabinho to pick out a shot and, when his effort was blocked by Trent Alexander-Arnold, Gundogan also had the space to take a touch before firing into the top corner. Liverpool have now conceded three or more goals in nine games this season and the punishment did not end there for the visitors. Grealish was the standout individual on the day and rounded off arguably his best performance as a City player with the fourth goal. City's movement off the ball was again too good for a cumbersome Liverpool defence as Grealish and De Bruyne exchanged a one-two before the Premier League's most expensive player of all time side-footed into the far corner. Arsenal, who face Leeds later on Saturday, maintain the upper hand in the title race. But City could be coming to the boil at just the right time after scoring 17 goals in their last three games and with Arsenal still to visit the Etihad later this month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Premier League: Manchester City romp Liverpool in statement 4-1 win; move within 5 points of Arsenal

<p>An Albanian man living in UK's Liverpool has gone viral on social media platforms after he was pictured giving the slip to law enforcement officers. 32-year-old Etmond Lika had been accused of growing cannabis in his home. When officers reached his place to arrest him, Lika climbed through the skylight and hid on the roof of the property with a police officer peering outside unaware.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prosecutor Christopher Hopkins informed that a locksmith was called to change the front door lock at an address at Stanley Road, Kirkdale in February when he noticed the cannabis installations. Lika, who had crossed the English Channel in a small boat last year was offered £100 a day to live at the 'cannabis growing' property.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the locksmith got suspicious, he informed the police. Later in the afternoon, the police converged on the property and began a thorough search operation. The police soon found out that in at least six rooms, over 200 plants of cannabis were being grown, in what Hopkins termed a 'sophisticated operation'.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/on-the-run-amritpal-singh-releases-new-video-577229"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;On the run Amritpal Singh releases new video</strong></a></p>

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<p>The police also figured out someone had been living around the property after finding food packets and other perishables. They zeroed in on Lika who attempted to evade the officers using his skylight manoeuvre. Soon after the rather 'unique' picture was clicked, the officers captured and arrested him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Lika had been employed by somebody to manage or run this installation whether that was tending to the plants or whatever else was required," Hopkins told the Liverpool Crown Court.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-man-fined-over-145k-for-taking-smoke-breaks-during-work-hours-577189"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Japanese man fined over $14.5k for taking smoke breaks during work hours</strong></a></p>

<p>The court sentenced him to two years and four months prison imprisonment whilst ordering the destruction of the drugs seized.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Olivia Beesley, the defendant's counsel stated that her client, who had no previous convictions in Albania just wanted to serve his sentence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"He simply wishes to receive his sentence with grace and understands he must be punished for this kind of offending," said Beesley.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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An Albanian man living in UK's Liverpool has gone viral on social media platforms after he was pictured giving the slip to law enforcement officers. 32-year-old Etmond Lika had been accused of growing cannabis in his home.

An Albanian man living in UK's Liverpool has gone viral on social media platforms after he was pictured giving the slip to law enforcement officers. 32-year-old Etmond Lika had been accused of growing cannabis in his home. When officers reached his place to arrest him, Lika climbed through the skylight and hid on the roof of the property with a police officer peering outside unaware. Prosecutor Christopher Hopkins informed that a locksmith was called to change the front door lock at an address at Stanley Road, Kirkdale in February when he noticed the cannabis installations. Lika, who had crossed the English Channel in a small boat last year was offered £100 a day to live at the 'cannabis growing' property. After the locksmith got suspicious, he informed the police. Later in the afternoon, the police converged on the property and began a thorough search operation. The police soon found out that in at least six rooms, over 200 plants of cannabis were being grown, in what Hopkins termed a 'sophisticated operation'. WATCH | On the run Amritpal Singh releases new video × The police also figured out someone had been living around the property after finding food packets and other perishables. They zeroed in on Lika who attempted to evade the officers using his skylight manoeuvre. Soon after the rather 'unique' picture was clicked, the officers captured and arrested him. "Lika had been employed by somebody to manage or run this installation whether that was tending to the plants or whatever else was required," Hopkins told the Liverpool Crown Court. ALSO READ | Japanese man fined over $14.5k for taking smoke breaks during work hours The court sentenced him to two years and four months prison imprisonment whilst ordering the destruction of the drugs seized. Olivia Beesley, the defendant's counsel stated that her client, who had no previous convictions in Albania just wanted to serve his sentence. "He simply wishes to receive his sentence with grace and understands he must be punished for this kind of offending," said Beesley. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Catch me if you can': Man hides inches away from police on roof of cannabis farmhouse

<p>Karim Benzema struck for Real Madrid to clinch a 1-0 win over Liverpool and qualification for the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday 6-2 on aggregate.</p>

<p>After the wild last 16 first leg clash at Anfield in February left Madrid sitting pretty with a three-goal advantage, Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp said his side only had a one per cent chance of turning the tie around.</p>

<p>They stemmed the bleeding at the Santiago Bernabeu but never looked like mounting a stirring comeback of the type they managed against Barcelona in 2019, or AC Milan in the 2005 final.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-eye-improbable-comeback-against-real-madrid-napoli-search-for-qf-berth-572338">Champions League: Liverpool eye improbable comeback against Real Madrid; Napoli search for QF berth</a></p>

<p>Madrid have now knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League in three consecutive seasons, including beating them in last year's final.</p>

<p>The 14-time record winners showed the nous to keep Liverpool at arm's length, with defenders Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger determined to shut out the visitors, along with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reigning champions Madrid could have significantly stretched their lead, save for a series of superb stops by Liverpool stopper Alisson Becker and some unusually profligate finishing.</p>

<p>In the first leg, Madrid were lethal, with Vinicius Junior and Benzema netting twice each - neither had their shooting boots on in the Spanish capital.</p>

<p>Eventually they combined for Madrid's winner after 78 minutes, with Vinicius slipping as he tried to shoot, but managing to hook the ball into Benzema's path for a simple tap-in.</p>

<p>Madrid's only worry was seeing their captain limp off after his goal amid an injury-hit season.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for Champions League final chaos</strong></p>

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<p>Liverpool, wildly inconsistent in this campaign, took heart from their 7-0 thrashing of Manchester United in the Premier League, but could not produce the same magic under the Bernabeu lights.</p>

<p>Klopp started with Diogo Jota alongside his usual attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo, deploying as much firepower as he could to try and mount a comeback.</p>

<p>The first chance of the game fell to Nunez but Courtois thwarted the Uruguayan, who was fed by Salah. At the other end Madrid sliced open Liverpool but Toni Kroos could not find Benzema, back after missing the win over Espanyol in La Liga on Saturday with an ankle problem.</p>

<p>Vinicius did produce a superb pass to feed the French striker, but Benzema miscontrolled and could not get a shot away.</p>

<p>The hosts began to dominate, running rings around James Milner and Fabinho in midfield, and Alisson made a stunning save to deny Vinicius from point-blank range.</p>

<p>Eduardo Camavinga, selected over Aurelien Tchouameni in defensive midfield by Ancelotti, crashed a long-range effort against the crossbar, with Alisson getting his fingertips to it.</p>

<p>The Brazilian goalkeeper denied Vinicius at his near post after he got in behind Trent Alexander-Arnold - not for the first time - and watched a Luka Modric drive fly narrowly over.</p>

<p>Liverpool showed signs of life near the end of the first half, with Nunez forcing Courtois into a full length stop with a curling effort.</p>

<p>However Madrid were on top at the start of the second half and Alisson foiled Fede Valverde as he ran through on goal, before fielding a tame Benzema follow-up.</p>

<p>Camavinga impressed in midfield and helped create Benzema's goal, with a drive forward pass in the build-up.</p>

<p>The striker has now scored seven times in the Champions League against Liverpool, more than any other player.</p>

<p>Benzema is key to Madrid's bid to lift the trophy for a sixth time in 10 seasons, if he can stay fit.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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Karim Benzema struck for Real Madrid to clinch a 1-0 win over Liverpool and qualification for the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday 6-2 on aggregate. After the wild last 16 first leg clash at Anfield in February left Madrid sitting pretty with a three-goal advantage, Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp said his side only had a one per cent chance of turning the tie around.

Karim Benzema struck for Real Madrid to clinch a 1-0 win over Liverpool and qualification for the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday 6-2 on aggregate. After the wild last 16 first leg clash at Anfield in February left Madrid sitting pretty with a three-goal advantage, Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp said his side only had a one per cent chance of turning the tie around. They stemmed the bleeding at the Santiago Bernabeu but never looked like mounting a stirring comeback of the type they managed against Barcelona in 2019, or AC Milan in the 2005 final. ALSO READ | Champions League: Liverpool eye improbable comeback against Real Madrid; Napoli search for QF berth Madrid have now knocked Liverpool out of the Champions League in three consecutive seasons, including beating them in last year's final. The 14-time record winners showed the nous to keep Liverpool at arm's length, with defenders Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger determined to shut out the visitors, along with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Reigning champions Madrid could have significantly stretched their lead, save for a series of superb stops by Liverpool stopper Alisson Becker and some unusually profligate finishing. In the first leg, Madrid were lethal, with Vinicius Junior and Benzema netting twice each - neither had their shooting boots on in the Spanish capital. Eventually they combined for Madrid's winner after 78 minutes, with Vinicius slipping as he tried to shoot, but managing to hook the ball into Benzema's path for a simple tap-in. Madrid's only worry was seeing their captain limp off after his goal amid an injury-hit season. WATCH | UEFA to refund Liverpool fans for Champions League final chaos Liverpool, wildly inconsistent in this campaign, took heart from their 7-0 thrashing of Manchester United in the Premier League, but could not produce the same magic under the Bernabeu lights. Klopp started with Diogo Jota alongside his usual attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo, deploying as much firepower as he could to try and mount a comeback. The first chance of the game fell to Nunez but Courtois thwarted the Uruguayan, who was fed by Salah. At the other end Madrid sliced open Liverpool but Toni Kroos could not find Benzema, back after missing the win over Espanyol in La Liga on Saturday with an ankle problem. Vinicius did produce a superb pass to feed the French striker, but Benzema miscontrolled and could not get a shot away. The hosts began to dominate, running rings around James Milner and Fabinho in midfield, and Alisson made a stunning save to deny Vinicius from point-blank range. Eduardo Camavinga, selected over Aurelien Tchouameni in defensive midfield by Ancelotti, crashed a long-range effort against the crossbar, with Alisson getting his fingertips to it. The Brazilian goalkeeper denied Vinicius at his near post after he got in behind Trent Alexander-Arnold - not for the first time - and watched a Luka Modric drive fly narrowly over. Liverpool showed signs of life near the end of the first half, with Nunez forcing Courtois into a full length stop with a curling effort. However Madrid were on top at the start of the second half and Alisson foiled Fede Valverde as he ran through on goal, before fielding a tame Benzema follow-up. Camavinga impressed in midfield and helped create Benzema's goal, with a drive forward pass in the build-up. The striker has now scored seven times in the Champions League against Liverpool, more than any other player. Benzema is key to Madrid's bid to lift the trophy for a sixth time in 10 seasons, if he can stay fit. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Benzema guides Madrid past Liverpool to reach Champions League quarters

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<p><strong>Real Madrid vs Liverpool Live:&nbsp;</strong>Real Madrid has always returned to the UEFA Champions League in a dramatic fashion. On Wednesday, March 15, 2023, Real Madrid will lock horns with Liverpool at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Liverpool needs to do something miraculous to revert the 5-2 loss from the first leg in the round of 16. In 2019, Liverpool returned at home in the semifinals against FC Barcelona. However, it lost Camp Nou before scoring a 4-0 win in the second leg. In the history of the UEFA Championships, only Barcelona, Roma, and Deportivo La Coruna have overcome a three-goal deficit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the weekend, the 1-0 loss at relegation-threatened Bournemouth took another hit at Liverpool's confidence. The last defeat has narrowed its chances of reaching the top four teams in the Premier League. Thus, it would be a thrilling match between Real Madrid and Liverpool.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here are all the live streaming details about the UEFA Champions League Real Madrid vs Liverpool.</p>

<h2><strong>Real Madrid vs Liverpool Match Details</strong></h2>

<p><strong>Date:&nbsp;</strong>Wednesday, March 15, 2023</p>

<p><strong>Time:</strong>&nbsp;08:00 PM GMT</p>

<p><strong>Venue:&nbsp;</strong>Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid Spain</p>

<h2><strong>Real Madrid vs Liverpool Live Streaming</strong></h2>

<p>Sony has the rights to telecast the UEFA Champions League matches. Thus, you can watch the Real Madrid vs Liverpool live match on Sony Ten Network on TV and Sony LIV App on mobile.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>When is UEFA Champions League 2023 Real Madrid vs Liverpool match?</strong></h2>

<p>The UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Liverpool is on March 15, 2023. However, due to the time difference, the match will start in India on March 16.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What time will the Real Madrid vs Liverpool match start?</strong></h2>

<p>The Real Madrid vs Liverpool on March 15 will start at 08:00 PM GMT. However, the game will begin at 01:30 AM IST on March 16 in India.</p>

<h2><strong>Where will the UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid &amp; Liverpool take place?</strong></h2>

<p>The Real Madrid vs Liverpool match will happen at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, Spain.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How to watch Real Madrid vs Liverpool in UEFA Champions League 2023 live in India?</strong></h2>

<p>The second leg of the round of 16-clash between Real Madrid and Liverpool will be live on Sony Ten Network.</p>

<h2><strong>Where can I watch live streaming of the Real Madrid vs Liverpool, the round of 16?</strong></h2>

<p>Sony LIV App will live stream the UEFA Champions League 2023 match between Real Madrid and Liverpool.&nbsp;</p>


Real Madrid vs Liverpool Live: Real Madrid has always returned to the UEFA Champions League in a dramatic fashion. On Wednesday, March 15, 2023, Real Madrid will lock horns with Liverpool at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.

Real Madrid vs Liverpool Live: Real Madrid has always returned to the UEFA Champions League in a dramatic fashion. On Wednesday, March 15, 2023, Real Madrid will lock horns with Liverpool at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Liverpool needs to do something miraculous to revert the 5-2 loss from the first leg in the round of 16. In 2019, Liverpool returned at home in the semifinals against FC Barcelona. However, it lost Camp Nou before scoring a 4-0 win in the second leg. In the history of the UEFA Championships, only Barcelona, Roma, and Deportivo La Coruna have overcome a three-goal deficit. Over the weekend, the 1-0 loss at relegation-threatened Bournemouth took another hit at Liverpool's confidence. The last defeat has narrowed its chances of reaching the top four teams in the Premier League. Thus, it would be a thrilling match between Real Madrid and Liverpool. Here are all the live streaming details about the UEFA Champions League Real Madrid vs Liverpool. Real Madrid vs Liverpool Match Details Date: Wednesday, March 15, 2023 Time: 08:00 PM GMT Venue: Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Madrid Spain Real Madrid vs Liverpool Live Streaming Sony has the rights to telecast the UEFA Champions League matches. Thus, you can watch the Real Madrid vs Liverpool live match on Sony Ten Network on TV and Sony LIV App on mobile. When is UEFA Champions League 2023 Real Madrid vs Liverpool match? The UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Liverpool is on March 15, 2023. However, due to the time difference, the match will start in India on March 16. What time will the Real Madrid vs Liverpool match start? The Real Madrid vs Liverpool on March 15 will start at 08:00 PM GMT. However, the game will begin at 01:30 AM IST on March 16 in India. Where will the UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid & Liverpool take place? The Real Madrid vs Liverpool match will happen at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid, Spain. How to watch Real Madrid vs Liverpool in UEFA Champions League 2023 live in India? The second leg of the round of 16-clash between Real Madrid and Liverpool will be live on Sony Ten Network. Where can I watch live streaming of the Real Madrid vs Liverpool, the round of 16? Sony LIV App will live stream the UEFA Champions League 2023 match between Real Madrid and Liverpool.

Real Madrid vs Liverpool Live Streaming: How to watch UEFA Champions League 2023 Real Madrid vs Liverpool Live

<p>Six-time champions Liverpool will eye an improbable comeback in the second leg of Round of 16&nbsp;of their Champions League encounter as they take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, March 15. Trailing 2-5 from the first leg, the Reds will need a historic performance to book their berth in the last eight with the defending champions hungry for more success. In the second encounter of the night, Italian giants Napoli will take on Eintracht Frankfurt as they too look to advance to the latter stages.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">👀 How can you watch it?<br />
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All you need to know about the second leg between Real Madrid and Liverpool 👇👇👇<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UCL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UCL</a></p>
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChampionsLeague/status/1635973177783320577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3><strong>Liverpool eye historic comeback</strong></h3>

<p>Braces from Karim Benzema and Vinícius Jr. were enough for Jurgen Klopp's men as they were condemned to the 2-5 defeat despite leading 2-0 at one stage of the contest. Liverpool have not won a Champions League game against Real since 2009 and will look to break the duck, but even that won't be enough for them to book a quarterfinal berth. On the horizon, Real have been in decent form of late and dropped points in La Liga recently but will look to switch again as they try to push for another shot at glory.</p>

<p>Thiago Alcantara, Luis Diaz and Jordan Henderson are probably out for the visitors while Real will look to play an attacking eleven despite having a healthy lead in the tie. The likes of Benzema, Modric and Kroos are expected to start if there are no late injury concerns.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As things stand, Real are on an unbeaten run of seven matches against Liverpool and will look to0 extend that lead on Wednesday.</p>

<h3><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2023-explained-how-smriti-mandhanas-rcb-can-still-qualify-for-playoffs-after-five-successive-defeats-572271">WPL 2023: EXPLAINED! How Smriti Mandhana's RCB can still qualify for playoffs after five successive defeats</a></strong></h3>

<h3><strong>Napoli look for last eight berth</strong></h3>

<p>Italian giants and run-away leaders in the Serie A Napoli will look to book their place in the quarterfinal of the Champions League as they come with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Frankfurt have been struggling in the Bundesliga this season but will look to make amends in the Champions League, but will have to produce a &nbsp;remarkable comeback. Napoli are currently 18 points clear at the top of Serie A and will concentrate on Europe once they are done with domestic affairs. Luciano Spalletti's men are the dark horses to win the title this season with the impressive squad at their disposal.</p>


Six-time champions Liverpool will eye an improbable comeback in the second leg of Round of 16 of their Champions League encounter as they take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, March 15.

Six-time champions Liverpool will eye an improbable comeback in the second leg of Round of 16 of their Champions League encounter as they take on Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, March 15. Trailing 2-5 from the first leg, the Reds will need a historic performance to book their berth in the last eight with the defending champions hungry for more success. In the second encounter of the night, Italian giants Napoli will take on Eintracht Frankfurt as they too look to advance to the latter stages. 👀 How can you watch it? All you need to know about the second leg between Real Madrid and Liverpool 👇👇👇#UCL — UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 15, 2023 × Liverpool eye historic comeback Braces from Karim Benzema and Vinícius Jr. were enough for Jurgen Klopp's men as they were condemned to the 2-5 defeat despite leading 2-0 at one stage of the contest. Liverpool have not won a Champions League game against Real since 2009 and will look to break the duck, but even that won't be enough for them to book a quarterfinal berth. On the horizon, Real have been in decent form of late and dropped points in La Liga recently but will look to switch again as they try to push for another shot at glory. Thiago Alcantara, Luis Diaz and Jordan Henderson are probably out for the visitors while Real will look to play an attacking eleven despite having a healthy lead in the tie. The likes of Benzema, Modric and Kroos are expected to start if there are no late injury concerns. As things stand, Real are on an unbeaten run of seven matches against Liverpool and will look to0 extend that lead on Wednesday. ALSO READ | WPL 2023: EXPLAINED! How Smriti Mandhana's RCB can still qualify for playoffs after five successive defeats Napoli look for last eight berth Italian giants and run-away leaders in the Serie A Napoli will look to book their place in the quarterfinal of the Champions League as they come with a 2-0 advantage from the first leg. Frankfurt have been struggling in the Bundesliga this season but will look to make amends in the Champions League, but will have to produce a remarkable comeback. Napoli are currently 18 points clear at the top of Serie A and will concentrate on Europe once they are done with domestic affairs. Luciano Spalletti's men are the dark horses to win the title this season with the impressive squad at their disposal.

Champions League: Liverpool eye improbable comeback against Real Madrid; Napoli search for QF berth

<p>Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was "a little bit surprised" by Roberto Firmino's decision to leave the club at the end of the season but wants to end the Brazilian forward's eight-year Anfield career on a high. Firmino, whose contract expires in June, has helped Liverpool win the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and Club World Cup among other major honours since joining them from Hoffenheim in June 2015.</p>

<p>"Surprised? Yes, a little bit - it could go two ways and it went one. And I respect that a lot," Klopp told reporters on Friday. "But it's completely normal in this kind of long relationship that we have and Bobby has with the club.</p>

<p>"He told me and then the only other thing he said is, 'Now I want to bring this wonderful story to a positive end'."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bruno-fernandes-must-learn-to-control-emotions-and-channel-them-in-the-right-way-feels-manager-ten-hag-570833">Bruno Fernandes must learn to control emotions and channel them in the right way, feels manager ten Hag</a></p>

<p>Firmino, 31, has scored 108 goals in more than 350 games in all competitions and was part of a potent attacking trio with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, who left for Bayern Munich last June, that helped Liverpool win the 2019-20 league title.</p>

<p>"Sadio, Bobby and Mo together were for quite a while one of the best front three in world football," Klopp added.</p>

<p>Firmino scored seven times in 13 Premier League games before the World Cup break but missed two months following the restart after sustaining a calf injury and has been restricted to five substitute appearances since his return in February.</p>

<p>He came off the bench to score Liverpool's final goal in last Sunday's 7-0 hammering of rivals Manchester United.</p>

<p>"I loved the reception he got when he came on against United," Klopp said. "He is completely here and completely committed, and that's all we need to know.</p>

<p>"There's no time for a goodbye or whatever in this moment, there's enough time for that later in the season. He's one of these players that even when he would come with an opposition team, people would be really happy to see him."</p>

<p>Liverpool, fifth in the league with 42 points, travel to bottom club Bournemouth on Saturday.</p>


Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was "a little bit surprised" by Roberto Firmino's decision to leave the club at the end of the season but wants to end the Brazilian forward's eight-year Anfield career on a high.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said he was "a little bit surprised" by Roberto Firmino's decision to leave the club at the end of the season but wants to end the Brazilian forward's eight-year Anfield career on a high. Firmino, whose contract expires in June, has helped Liverpool win the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and Club World Cup among other major honours since joining them from Hoffenheim in June 2015. "Surprised? Yes, a little bit - it could go two ways and it went one. And I respect that a lot," Klopp told reporters on Friday. "But it's completely normal in this kind of long relationship that we have and Bobby has with the club. "He told me and then the only other thing he said is, 'Now I want to bring this wonderful story to a positive end'." ALSO READ: Bruno Fernandes must learn to control emotions and channel them in the right way, feels manager ten Hag Firmino, 31, has scored 108 goals in more than 350 games in all competitions and was part of a potent attacking trio with Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, who left for Bayern Munich last June, that helped Liverpool win the 2019-20 league title. "Sadio, Bobby and Mo together were for quite a while one of the best front three in world football," Klopp added. Firmino scored seven times in 13 Premier League games before the World Cup break but missed two months following the restart after sustaining a calf injury and has been restricted to five substitute appearances since his return in February. He came off the bench to score Liverpool's final goal in last Sunday's 7-0 hammering of rivals Manchester United. "I loved the reception he got when he came on against United," Klopp said. "He is completely here and completely committed, and that's all we need to know. "There's no time for a goodbye or whatever in this moment, there's enough time for that later in the season. He's one of these players that even when he would come with an opposition team, people would be really happy to see him." Liverpool, fifth in the league with 42 points, travel to bottom club Bournemouth on Saturday.

Firmino's call to leave Liverpool 'surprised me a bit', admits manager Jurgen Klopp

<p>The Premier League (PL) title race could take a decisive twist this weekend as Arsenal and Manchester City face tough away trips. While Arsenal will face Fulham at Craven Cottage, their title rivals City will also be in London as they take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The weekend though will provide a big opportunity for Liverpool to claim a top four spot as they travel to Bournemouth.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the scoresheet 🎯 <a href="https://t.co/H753oEJAUf">pic.twitter.com/H753oEJAUf</a></p>
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<h3><strong>Arsenal face Fulham</strong></h3>

<p>Mikel Arteta’s side will have fresh memories of their stunning PL win against Bournemouth last weekend as Reiss Nelson scored in the 97th minute to take all three points. However, they face Fulham who are enjoying a great revival in the PL after returning to the top division. West London outfit beat Chelsea in January and will look to add a spanner in the work for the Gunners. Marco Silva’s side also occupies a European spot and have already weaved away relegation fears.</p>

<h3><strong>Man City travel to Crystal Palace</strong></h3>

<p>Manchester City will have big days to come in their season and this week could prove decisive with bearings on PL and the Champions League. Pep Guardiola’s side will travel to Palace before they face RB Leipzig in the Champions League in midweek. Currently, only five points separate the Gunners and Man City and a win for Arsenal and a defeat for City could hand a real initiative for the North London side.</p>

<h3>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahmedabad-test-pitch-a-big-learning-curve-for-rohit-sharma-says-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-570558">Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri</a></h3>

<h3><strong>Liverpool eye top four spot</strong></h3>

<p>Jurgen Klopp’s side will also be in Champions League action on the weekend as they try to overturn a three-goal deposit. However, Liverpool’s eyes will be on the Champions League football for next season as they try to push for top four place. Their 7-0 thrashing of Manchester United last week saw them gain vital ground on the goal difference and could feature in the top four before Spurs host Nottingham Forrest later in the day.</p>

<p>The weekend will also see Manchester United face Southampton as they try to put the disappointing result behind them, having lost 0-7 to Liverpool. Chelsea will face Leicester City on Saturday while West Ham United face Aston Villa with the weekend rounding off as Wolves visit Newcastle on Sunday.</p>


The Premier League (PL) title race could take a decisive twist this weekend as Arsenal and Manchester City face tough away trips. While Arsenal will face Fulham at Craven Cottage, their title rivals City will also be in London as they take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

The Premier League (PL) title race could take a decisive twist this weekend as Arsenal and Manchester City face tough away trips. While Arsenal will face Fulham at Craven Cottage, their title rivals City will also be in London as they take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. The weekend though will provide a big opportunity for Liverpool to claim a top four spot as they travel to Bournemouth. On the scoresheet 🎯 pic.twitter.com/H753oEJAUf — Premier League (@premierleague) March 9, 2023 × Arsenal face Fulham Mikel Arteta’s side will have fresh memories of their stunning PL win against Bournemouth last weekend as Reiss Nelson scored in the 97th minute to take all three points. However, they face Fulham who are enjoying a great revival in the PL after returning to the top division. West London outfit beat Chelsea in January and will look to add a spanner in the work for the Gunners. Marco Silva’s side also occupies a European spot and have already weaved away relegation fears. Man City travel to Crystal Palace Manchester City will have big days to come in their season and this week could prove decisive with bearings on PL and the Champions League. Pep Guardiola’s side will travel to Palace before they face RB Leipzig in the Champions League in midweek. Currently, only five points separate the Gunners and Man City and a win for Arsenal and a defeat for City could hand a real initiative for the North London side. ALSO READ | Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri Liverpool eye top four spot Jurgen Klopp’s side will also be in Champions League action on the weekend as they try to overturn a three-goal deposit. However, Liverpool’s eyes will be on the Champions League football for next season as they try to push for top four place. Their 7-0 thrashing of Manchester United last week saw them gain vital ground on the goal difference and could feature in the top four before Spurs host Nottingham Forrest later in the day. The weekend will also see Manchester United face Southampton as they try to put the disappointing result behind them, having lost 0-7 to Liverpool. Chelsea will face Leicester City on Saturday while West Ham United face Aston Villa with the weekend rounding off as Wolves visit Newcastle on Sunday.

Premier League: Arsenal, Man City face tough away trips in PL title race; Liverpool eye Top 4 berth

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